Brazil Welcomes Indonesia as New Full Member of BRICS

On January 6, Brazil announced Indonesia’s formal membership in BRICS, following approval at the August 2023 Johannesburg Summit. This marks Brazil’s first expansion of the group since taking over the presidency. Indonesia’s entry reflects its economic prominence in Southeast Asia and shared objectives with BRICS members.
On January 6, Brazil officially announced Indonesia’s accession as a full member of BRICS, signifying a notable expansion of the group during Brazil’s presidency, which commenced on January 1. Indonesia’s membership had received approval during the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023 and was finalized following the establishment of its new government, which awaited the conclusion of the upcoming presidential elections in 2024 to confirm its interest in joining the bloc.
The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its enthusiasm regarding Indonesia’s entry, underscoring the nation’s status as “the largest economy in Southeast Asia” and its alignment with BRICS’ fundamental objectives. The statement emphasized that Indonesia shares the group’s commitment to reforming global governance institutions, which is essential for fostering cooperation in the Global South—a priority for Brazil’s presidency, encapsulated in the motto of “Strengthening Cooperation in the Global South for a more Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.”
With Indonesia’s membership, BRICS expands to include eleven full members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and now Indonesia. This addition is expected to enhance the group’s collective influence in global economic and political arenas.
The BRICS acronym stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, a coalition of emerging economies seeking to foster collaboration and propose reforms in global governance. The recent Johannesburg Summit in August 2023 marked a significant moment in this organization’s evolution as it approved Indonesia’s membership, which demonstrates the bloc’s commitment to inclusivity and expansion. Indonesia’s economic stature and its alignment with BRICS’ objectives make it a valuable addition to the group, signaling a shift towards a broader representation of developing countries.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Indonesia as a full member of BRICS symbolizes a pivotal step in the group’s expansion under Brazil’s leadership. Indonesia’s economic significance and shared values regarding global governance reform align with BRICS goals, furthering the collaboration among emerging economies. This expansion reaffirms BRICS’ commitment to strengthening ties within the Global South and enhancing its role in global affairs.
Original Source: www.gov.br