On January 6, 2024, Brazil officially announced Indonesia’s accession as a full BRICS member. This follows the approval granted at the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023. Indonesia, recognized as the largest economy in Southeast Asia, aligns with BRICS’ objectives, emphasizing reform in global governance and Global South collaboration. With Indonesia’s entry, BRICS now comprises eleven full members.
On January 6, 2024, Brazil officially welcomed Indonesia as a full member of BRICS, marking the first expansion of the group under the Brazilian presidency that commenced on January 1, 2024. The accession of Indonesia was previously approved at the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023 and was formalized following the establishment of Indonesia’s new government, which awaited the results of its 2024 presidential elections before confirming its commitment to BRICS. The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement acknowledging Indonesia’s significant economic presence as Southeast Asia’s largest economy and its shared commitment to BRICS’ objectives. The statement emphasized Indonesia’s role in advocating for the reform of global governance institutions and its contributions to enhancing cooperation within the Global South, which are central themes of Brazil’s presidency underscored by the motto “Strengthening Cooperation in the Global South for a more Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Following Indonesia’s induction, BRICS now consists of eleven full members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia.
The BRICS group, which comprises emerging economies from around the globe, was formed to promote cooperation and collaboration on various economic and political issues. Recently, BRICS has seen a notable expansion with Indonesia’s membership. Indonesia was chosen not only for its substantial economic footprint in Southeast Asia but also for its alignment with BRICS goals, such as advocacy for reform in global governance structures and strengthening ties within the Global South. This strategic addition underlines the collective ambition of BRICS member countries to bolster their influence on the global stage and advocate for a more inclusive world order.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s induction as the newest full member of BRICS signifies a pivotal moment for both BRICS and Indonesia. As the largest economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s participation will enhance the group’s effectiveness in promoting cooperation in the Global South. Furthermore, this expansion reflects BRICS’ commitment to global governance reform and collaboration among emerging economies, thereby reinforcing the group’s role in the international arena.
Original Source: www.gov.br