SAO PAULO — Indonesia has officially joined the BRICS coalition of emerging economies, as announced by Brazil, currently presiding over the group. This development was confirmed on Monday, marking an important milestone for both Indonesia and the BRICS alliance.
According to Brazil’s foreign ministry, BRICS leaders had previously endorsed Indonesia’s application back in August 2023. However, the decision to officially join the group was made following the establishment of Indonesia’s newly elected government late last year. Brazil expressed its strong support for Indonesia’s inclusion in the BRICS, emphasizing the nation’s significant role as the largest economy and population in Southeast Asia. The Brazilian government stated that Indonesia shares a commitment with other member nations towards overhauling global governance systems and enhancing cooperation among developing countries.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that joining BRICS symbolizes Indonesia’s growing engagement in global matters and its dedication to advancing multilateral cooperation. The statement articulated Indonesia’s view of its new BRICS membership as a vital step in fostering collaboration with other developing nations, built on the foundations of equality, mutual respect, and sustainable development.
Originally established in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS expanded to include South Africa in 2010. The group further increased its membership last year by adding Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. While Saudi Arabia has received an invitation to join, it has yet to confirm its participation.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed warm congratulations to Indonesia for joining the bloc, referring to the nation as a significant player within the developing world and an influential entity within the Global South. Guo also noted Indonesia’s potential to contribute positively to the development of the BRICS framework.
Interest in joining BRICS continues to grow, with countries such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia having formally applied for membership, while others have shown intent to join. The organization was established as a counterbalance to the Group of Seven (G7), which comprises developed nations. The name BRICS originated from an economic term used in the early 2000s, indicative of emerging countries projected to significantly influence the global economy by 2050.
Prior to Indonesia’s induction, the BRICS coalition represented nearly 45% of the global population and approximately 35% of the world’s gross domestic product when evaluated through the lens of purchasing power parity. The changes in membership further enhance the bloc’s influence on the global stage.
