Indonesia has officially become a full member of BRICS, as announced on Monday by Brazil, the current rotating president of the group.
Founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS welcomed South Africa two years later. Initially established as a platform for mutual investments and financial stability, the group has since expanded its agenda to include security issues.
Indonesia’s membership was approved by BRICS leaders in 2023. However, the world’s fourth most populous nation, with over 270 million people, decided to join only after the formation of its new government last year.
Official Statement from Brazil: “Indonesia shares with other members the support for reforming global governance institutions and contributes positively to deepening cooperation in the Global South.”
Last year, the group welcomed Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates as full members. Future official partners include nations such as Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Thailand, Cuba, Uganda, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan.
Growing Interest in BRICS
More than 20 other countries have expressed interest in collaborating with BRICS, according to official Russian sources.
