Indonesia's First Step into BRICS
This month, Indonesia made history by becoming the first Southeast Asian country to join BRICS as a full member. Announced by Brazil, the current BRICS president, Indonesia's membership was solidified following endorsements during the 2023 Johannesburg Summit.
Timing and Leadership
After the 2024 general elections, Indonesia, under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, swiftly accepted the BRICS invitation. Joining a diverse group of nations, Indonesia now stands alongside Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates as BRICS’ 10th full member.
ASEAN's Growing Influence
The expansion of BRICS with significant ASEAN representation, including Malaysia, Thailand, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Uganda, and Uzbekistan as partner countries, highlights ASEAN's strategic role in global trade. Vietnam has also been invited for BRICS partner status, further emphasizing ASEAN’s economic clout in the Global South.
Looking Ahead
Indonesia's inclusion not only marks a milestone for the nation but also strengthens ASEAN's position on the global stage, fostering deeper economic ties and collaborative opportunities within the BRICS framework.
Reference(s):
Why BRICS affiliation is an attractive proposition for ASEAN countries
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