In a landmark development earlier this month, Brazil, currently holding the rotating presidency of BRICS, announced Indonesia’s entry as a full member into the influential economic bloc. This significant move makes Indonesia the first Southeast Asian nation to attain full membership in BRICS, signaling a shift in the global economic landscape.
The announcement came via a press release issued on January 6, wherein Brazil revealed that Indonesia’s candidacy had been endorsed by the BRICS members during the Johannesburg Summit in 2023. At that time, a major expansion was underway, but due to Indonesia’s general elections slated for 2024, the nation decided to postpone its decision until a new government was formed.
Following the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto in October, Indonesia swiftly accepted the invitation to join BRICS. The country now joins the ranks of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates as the 10th full member of the grouping.
The inclusion of Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy, underscores the growing influence of ASEAN nations on the global stage. Indonesia’s membership may have surprised some observers, especially since earlier in the year, it, along with eight other countries, had gained BRICS partner status following the Kazan Summit. Among these partners are fellow ASEAN members Malaysia and Thailand, highlighting the region’s increasing engagement with BRICS.
Other nations such as Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Uganda, and Uzbekistan have also accepted invitations to become BRICS partner countries, with Nigeria’s participation confirmed recently. Vietnam, another key ASEAN economy, has received an invitation for partner status but has yet to make a decision.
Experts believe that Indonesia’s full membership in BRICS could pave the way for enhanced cooperation among emerging economies and provide new avenues for trade, investment, and development. The expansion of BRICS to include more ASEAN countries reflects the shifting dynamics of global economic power towards the Global South.
“Indonesia’s entry into BRICS represents a significant milestone not just for the country but for all ASEAN nations,” said an international relations analyst. “It opens up opportunities for collaboration on infrastructure projects, technology exchange, and sustainable development.”
The strong representation of ASEAN countries in BRICS is expected to strengthen the voice of developing nations in global affairs. As these countries continue to collaborate within the BRICS framework, they are poised to play a more prominent role in shaping international economic policies and fostering inclusive growth.
Indonesia’s decision to join BRICS reflects its commitment to pursuing diversified partnerships and underscores the importance of South-South cooperation in addressing global challenges. The coming years may see more ASEAN nations following suit, further enhancing the region’s influence on the world stage.
Reference(s):
Why BRICS affiliation is an attractive proposition for ASEAN countries
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