Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesian Foreign Minister (Kemlu), Sugiono has expressed Indonesia desire to join the BRICS, marking the first major foreign diplomacy move of President Prabowo Subianto’s newly inaugurated administration.
Sugiono made this statement while attending the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on Thursday, October 24.
Sugiono highlighted that Indonesia’s interest in BRICS fits with the objectives of the current administration under President Prabowo Subianto. As a member, Indonesia aims to amplify the shared interests of developing nations, commonly referred to as the Global South.
“We see BRICS as a promising platform to advocate for and advance the Global South’s interests,” he added. “Simultaneously, we remain engaged in other international forums and maintain constructive dialogue with developed nations.”
Sugino also emphasized that joining BRICS is an implementation of Indonesia’s free and active foreign policy, not leaning towards a particular camp or bloc.
“Indonesia’s intention to join BRICS aligns with our independent and active foreign policy,” Sugiono said in a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “This does not signify an alliance with any particular bloc but rather Indonesia’s active participation across all global forums.”
BRICS
BRICS, an economic, political, and cultural partnership, initially formed in 2006, includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Its mission is to address pressing global issues, with a particular focus on the needs of developing countries.
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Indonesia currently holds a “BRICS Partner” status, along with 12 other countries, and joined the partnership this year alongside fellow ASEAN nations Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. While partners may attend some summit meetings, they do not hold voting rights, nor are they obligated to participate fully in BRICS’ key activities or decision-making processes.
In addition to the founding members, BRICS recently expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The other BRICS partners are Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Indonesia move to join BRICS reflects its broader diplomatic strategy under President Prabowo Subianto, as the nation seeks greater representation and collaboration on the global stage. As BRICS continues to evolve with new members and partners, Indonesia’s participation could contribute to reshaping dialogue between the Global South and developed nations, reinforcing its role as an advocate for equitable global development.
(Raidi/Agung)
