With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements : 1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009. 2. South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is: C. Both 1 and 2

The First Summit of BRICS was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on June 16–17, 2009. The five founding members of BRICS are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. South Africa joined the grouping in 2011.

The BRICS countries are all emerging economies with large populations and growing economies. They have been working together to promote economic growth, development, and cooperation. The BRICS countries have also been working to increase their influence in global affairs.

The BRICS countries have a combined population of over 3 billion people and a combined GDP of over $18 trillion. They are major players in the global economy and are expected to play an increasingly important role in the years to come.

The BRICS countries have a number of common interests, including the need to promote economic growth and development, the need to address climate change, and the need to reform the global financial system. They have also been working together to increase their cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and technology.

The BRICS countries have been criticized for their lack of democracy and human rights records. However, they have also been praised for their efforts to promote economic development and cooperation. The BRICS countries are likely to continue to play an important role in the global economy and in global affairs in the years to come.