Brasília (Agencies): Brazil, the current rotating president of BRICS, announced on Monday that Indonesia has officially become a full member of the group. This marks a significant expansion for BRICS, which was originally founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining in 2011.
Indonesia’s membership was endorsed by BRICS leaders in 2023, but the formal accession was delayed until the formation of Indonesia’s new government last year. As the world’s fourth most populous country, Indonesia’s inclusion is seen as a strategic move to strengthen alliances among emerging nations and promote the interests of the Global South.
Brazil highlighted that Indonesia shares the group’s commitment to reforming global governance institutions and contributing positively to South-South cooperation. This expansion reflects BRICS’ growing influence and its role as a counterweight to Western-dominated global institutions.