Indonesia joins BRICS as full member
Brazil, the current president of BRICS, announced on Monday that Indonesia has officially joined the bloc as a full member. The Brazilian Foreign Ministry confirmed that Indonesia’s candidacy was approved by the BRICS leaders in August 2023. However, Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most populous country, decided to formally join only after its newly elected government took office last year.
The Brazilian government expressed its support for Indonesia’s inclusion. In a statement, it highlighted Indonesia’s significance as the largest economy and population in Southeast Asia. The government emphasized that Indonesia shares BRICS’ vision of reforming global governance and fostering South-South cooperation. This new membership strengthens the bloc’s commitment to global economic reform.
BRICS, originally formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded in 2010 to include South Africa. In 2023, the group grew further by adding Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia received an invitation but has not yet joined. Countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have applied to become members, and others have expressed interest.
In recent years, some BRICS members, notably Russia and China, have explored alternatives to the US Dollar. India, however, has remained cautious on this front. Amidst this shift, Donald Trump, the incoming US president, warned BRICS countries against replacing the US Dollar. He demanded a commitment from the group, warning of severe tariffs if they attempted to create a new currency or support another to replace the Dollar.
Trump’s warning came with a strong message: “If these countries cannot commit, they will face 100% tariffs and lose access to the US market.” This highlights ongoing tensions between the US and the growing BRICS bloc, which now includes emerging economies with growing influence on the global stage.
The addition of Indonesia further solidifies BRICS as a significant counterbalance to traditional Western powers. The group has become a symbol of the rising influence of developing nations, challenging existing global financial and political systems. As the bloc expands, it continues to attract attention for its potential to reshape global governance.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS marks a pivotal moment for the bloc. It strengthens BRICS’ position in Southeast Asia and adds another influential member to its ranks. However, the ongoing debate over currency alternatives and the US response suggests that the group’s future direction will remain a point of contention on the global stage.
