Zimbabwe’s Bid to Join BRICS: A Strategic Move for Economic Cooperation

Zimbabwe is officially seeking to join BRICS, recognizing it as a vital platform for economic cooperation. Minister Amon Murwira’s discussions in Moscow underscored the significant sectors for collaboration. BRICS expansion is currently paused, with potential tensions within African countries requiring careful consideration. Zimbabwe’s aspiration coincides with its historical context and economic challenges, while a new gold-backed currency aligns with BRICS membership criteria. The forthcoming summit in July will be instrumental for Zimbabwe’s future in BRICS.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe, Amon Murwira, recently confirmed the country’s application to join the BRICS union, highlighting its importance as a platform for mutual respect and economic cooperation among nations. His discussions in Moscow, deemed “unique” by The Herald, focused on enhancing Zimbabwe’s relationships with BRICS members and furthering its economic interests.

Zimbabwe’s potential membership could enlarge BRICS representation from Africa, following the inclusion of Egypt and Ethiopia in 2024. With South Africa as a founding member since 2011, Zimbabwe aligns itself with the BRICS model which promotes non-alignment with any dominant blocs. Key sectors for cooperation discussed include mining, energy, and agriculture.

Murwira emphasized the need to establish strong economic ties with Russia to bolster Zimbabwe’s resilience against Western influence. This quest comes in light of the country’s tumultuous history since its independence in 1980 and the significant economic challenges it faces today. His remarks remind us of Zimbabwe’s colonial past, transitioning from a white minority-ruled nation to one seeking greater autonomy and economic stability.

Recent dynamics reflect broader shifts in African nations reevaluating their post-colonial relationships, exemplified by the withdrawal of French military bases from West Africa. Zimbabwe’s aspiration to join BRICS signifies a departure from its historical alignment with Western powers, with potential changes occurring in English-speaking African countries as well.

BRICS, however, has shown caution in expanding its membership, with several nations—including Syria and Turkey—expressing interest. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov indicated a pause on adding new members until bureaucratic issues are resolved. The complexities within the African continental framework also raise concerns, particularly regarding bilateral tensions such as between Egypt and Ethiopia.

According to Zimbabwe’s constitution, the nation aspires to engage in global organizations that promote economic cooperation, reinforcing its interest in BRICS as a viable platform. Murwira’s previous visits to Russia have laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation, with Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri asserting that joining BRICS would encourage economic growth free from Western dominance.

Zimbabwe’s introduction of a gold-backed currency signifies readiness for BRICS membership, meeting one of the criteria for joining such an economic bloc. The nation’s strategic desire to align itself with BRICS is evident; however, BRICS members will need to reconsider their policies on new memberships to facilitate this process, especially following the upcoming summit in July 2024 in Rio de Janeiro.

Zimbabwe’s intent to join BRICS signifies its strategy to enhance economic cooperation and resist Western dominance, amidst a shifting landscape in Africa. The potential integration underscores a growing desire for autonomous progress, with Zimbabwe prepared to meet BRICS membership criteria, even as the bloc navigates its internal complexities regarding new members. Future discussions during the upcoming BRICS summit will be critical in determining Zimbabwe’s prospects for inclusion.

Original Source: fakti.bg