BRICS has a new member as Indonesia joins. Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy and the world’s fourth-most populous nation, has officially joined the BRICS as a full member. This important development was announced by Brazil, the pro tempore president of BRICS.

“The Brazilian government welcomes Indonesia’s entry into the BRICS, Indonesia shares with the other members of the group support for the reform of global governance institutions, and contributes positively to the deepening of cooperation in the Global South”

Brazilian Government

BRICS group, which originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The group, formed in 2009, aims to enhance cooperation among major emerging economies and neutralize the dominance of Western-led institutions.

BRICS+ Strengthening Global South Cooperation

Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS is expected to boost the group’s influence on the global stage. With a population of 277 million, Indonesia brings massive economic and demographic weight to BRICS. Indonesia’s inclusion is seen as a strategic move to deepen South-South cooperation and promote a more inclusive and sustainable global governance.

“This achievement shows Indonesia’s increasingly active role in global issues and commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation to create a global structure that is more inclusive and fairer.”

Foreign Ministry-Indonesia

Brazil’s government welcomed Indonesia’s membership, highlighting the shared commitment to reforming global governance institutions and enhancing cooperation among developing nations.

A Broader Shift in Global Power Dynamics

Indonesia’s membership in BRICS comes at a time when the bloc is expanding its reach and influence. Last year, BRICS added Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE to its ranks, with Saudi Arabia invited to join. Countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have also formally applied for membership.

The decision to admit Indonesia was endorsed by BRICS members during their August 2023 summit. However, Jakarta delayed formalizing its membership until the establishment of its newly elected government last year.

China welcomes and warmly congratulates Indonesia on becoming a full member of BRICS. Indonesia, as a major developing country and important force in the Global South, highly recognizes the BRICS spirit and has taken an active part in “BRICS +” cooperation.

China

BRICS+ Ahead

As Indonesia joins BRICS, the bloc is poised to play a more critical role in contributing to global economic and political scenarios. The alliance’s continued expansion reflects a broader shift in global power dynamics, with emerging economies seeking greater influence and representation on the world stage.

For Indonesia, membership in BRICS offers an opportunity to strengthen its economic ties with other major developing nations and contribute to the group’s collective efforts to promote sustainable development and global cooperation.

The expansion of BRICS+ indicates that, following years of robust economic growth, emerging markets are now prepared to take on a more significant role in the global order, one that aligns more closely with their interests.