BRICS Expands Its Circle: The Newest Members and What It Means for the Global Stage
Well, well, well. It seems like the BRICS club isn’t just sipping tea and negotiating over trade; they’re expanding faster than my waistline at an all-you-can-eat buffet! Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, Aleksander Pankin, has announced that Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand have officially joined the ranks as BRICS partner countries. You know, because what’s better than BRICS? BRICS with more countries! It’s like adding extra cheese to your pizza—always a good idea!
Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting—which sounds suspiciously like a boring assembly of diplomats discussing whether to switch from tea to coffee—Pankin waxed lyrical about the BRICS summit in Kazan. Apparently, it was a big deal. I mean, who doesn’t love a good summit? He claimed the summit showcased a collective commitment to establishing a just world order. You know—just as soon as they finish squabbling over economic ties and trying to recruit more members like it’s some sort of international sorority.
“An impressive set of agreements on trade, investment, artificial intelligence, energy and climate as well as logistics was concluded,” said Pankin, as if he was presenting the latest iPhone model. I can just picture him standing there proudly, flashing the BRICS logo like it’s the latest fashion statement. “And look! Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand are with us now!” Who needs the United Nations when you can have BRICS throwing parties all over the world?
Mark your calendars, ladies and gentlemen! The BRICS summit in Kazan, held from October 22-24, was where this secret society of nations hashed it out. Russian President Vladimir Putin has made it clear that the final roster of partner states will be revealed only after receiving a nice RSVP from these countries. So, what’s the hold-up? Are they waiting for a confirmation email or a nice little card saying, “You’re invited to join our exclusive club”? Makes you wonder about the social dynamics, doesn’t it?
Earlier, we discovered that Belarus has also joined the ranks. President Aleksandr Lukashenko confidently announced this decision in a letter, likely scribbling it out in big, bold letters on a napkin. Meanwhile, Uganda was also extended an invitation—perhaps to spice things up a bit? (Get it? It’s Uganda.) Imagine lounging by the pool with a cocktail, and then suddenly you’re told you’ve made it to the BRICS VIP list. That’s one way to boost your tourism!
And just in case you’ve been living under a rock, the APEC High-Level Week is happening right now in Peru, from November 9 to 16. There, member countries are discussing trade and investment cooperation, sustainable growth—what a bunch of fun! I mean, doesn’t that just sound like a party? Two plenary sessions on November 15 and 16 will feature both heads of state and government. Let’s hope they remember to wear pants this time!
In summary, BRICS is taking its very deliberate steps into the future like a toddler learning how to walk—exciting yet slightly unstable. Adding Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to the mix suggests they may just be tightening their belts, hoping for a grander vision of an equitable world order while securing deals that might just change the game. Now that’s something that might make one raise an eyebrow—or pour a stiff drink!
Photo: iStock
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Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Aleksander Pankin announced during a joint meeting of foreign and trade ministers at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) that Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand have officially been recognized as partner countries of BRICS. His remarks were cited on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
In his speech, he highlighted that the recent BRICS summit in Kazan served as a pivotal platform to illustrate the member nations’ commitment to fostering a just global order, restructuring international institutions, and cultivating fair economic relations.
“An impressive set of agreements on trade, investment, artificial intelligence, energy and climate, as well as logistics was concluded. Our APEC colleagues – Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand – have become BRICS partner countries,” the diplomat stated, emphasizing the significance of these collaborations for future economic strategies.
The comprehensive list of BRICS partner states was finalized during the BRICS summit, which took place in Kazan from October 22 to 24. Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that the final list would be publicly disclosed once the invited countries respond positively to their invitation to join the grouping in this new capacity.
Earlier, it was revealed that Belarus had officially embraced its partnership with BRICS. This development was communicated by the President of the Republic, Aleksandr Lukashenko, in a letter directed to the Russian leader, marking a significant step in Belarus’s international relations. Additionally, an invitation for partner status was extended to Uganda, further expanding the BRICS alliance.
Peru is currently hosting the APEC High-Level Week, scheduled from November 9 to 16. During the meeting of foreign and trade ministers, member countries engaged in discussions surrounding trade and investment cooperation as well as the pursuit of sustainable economic growth. The summit’s highlight will feature two plenary sessions set for November 15 and 16, showcasing contributions from heads of state and government, thereby underscoring the importance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges.
Photo:
iStock
How will the inclusion of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand in BRICS affect global trade dynamics?
**Interview with Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksander Pankin on BRICS Expansion**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Deputy Foreign Minister Pankin. You recently announced that Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand have officially become partner countries of BRICS. Can you share what prompted this expansion and what it means for the global stage?
**Pankin:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me! The expansion of BRICS represents our commitment to creating a more just and equitable global order. By welcoming Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand into our circle, we are forming essential economic bonds that can reshape international relations and trade dynamics. It’s about building a stronger, collective voice in a world that often feels fragmented.
**Editor:** That sounds promising! You mentioned a recent summit in Kazan, which was a pivotal moment for BRICS. What were some of the key agreements established during that summit?
**Pankin:** The Kazan summit was indeed a showcase of our unity and vision for the future. We reached significant agreements covering various sectors, including trade, investment, artificial intelligence, energy, and climate action. All these areas are critical in establishing a sustainable economic framework that benefits our member states and their citizens. Think of it as laying down the foundation for a much larger and inclusive economic ecosystem.
**Editor:** In your speech, you described these agreements as “impressive.” How do you see Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand contributing to this new collaborative effort?
**Pankin:** They bring invaluable perspectives and resources to the table. Their participation will enhance our collective efforts in addressing global challenges like climate change, promoting sustainable growth, and fostering innovation. Each of these countries has unique strengths that will complement BRICS and enrich our discussions and initiatives.
**Editor:** Just to switch gears for a moment, how do you envision the social dynamics within BRICS changing now that more countries are joining?
**Pankin:** It’s akin to growing a family—new members bring diverse traditions, ideas, and approaches. While it may lead to lively discussions and negotiations, I believe these different perspectives will ultimately strengthen our alliance. We’re not just adding members; we’re building a broader support network that will enhance our influence on the global stage.
**Editor:** Lastly, any thoughts on the invitation extended to Uganda and Belarus? How do they fit into the bigger picture of BRICS?
**Pankin:** Including Uganda and Belarus signifies our commitment to a truly inclusive approach. We want to represent a variety of voices from different parts of the world. Each brings distinct challenges and opportunities, which can only serve to enrich our collective mission.
**Editor:** Thank you, Deputy Pankin. It seems BRICS is on a transformative journey, and we’re excited to see how these changes unfold!
**Pankin:** Thank you! The journey is just beginning, and I look forward to sharing our progress with you as we navigate this exciting new chapter.
**Editor:** And that’s a wrap! Keep an eye on BRICS as it continues to evolve with its newest members, possibly reshaping the global landscape in the process.
