Indonesia is set to become one of the nine partner countries of the BRICS organization starting January 1, 2025. This announcement was made by Vladimir Putin’s Advisor on International Relations, Yury Ushakov, on Monday, December 23. 

 

In addition to Indonesia, eight other countries confirmed as BRICS partner nations on the same date are Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Thailand, Cuba, Uganda, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan. 

 

"Ahead of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, we received 35 membership applications. Undoubtedly, one of the most significant outcomes of the summit was the establishment of the 'BRICS partner countries' category," Ushakov stated during a press conference. 

 

He explained that out of the proposals submitted by 13 countries applying for membership, nine countries, including Indonesia, have expressed their readiness to become BRICS partner countries. 

 

"We are also awaiting responses from four other countries to whom we have sent invitations," added the Russian presidential aide. 

 

Over 20 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, and the organization remains open to like-minded nations wishing to become members. 

 

In October, Russia hosted the BRICS Summit in Kazan. This international event was attended by 41 delegations from 30 countries and six heads of international organizations. 

 

According to Ushakov, the high turnout reflects the interest of Global South and Eastern countries in collaborating with BRICS. 

 

Furthermore, the unity of countries with the highest economic growth rates is seen as a critical element in creating a multipolar world and a unifying force that can protect the interests of Global South and Eastern nations. 

 

The Kremlin aide also accused the United States and its allies of attempting to pressure countries invited to the recent BRICS Summit to avoid participating in the organization’s agenda. 

 

BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents a group of major developing countries with significant global economic influence. 

 

Why Indonesia Is Interested in Joining BRICS 

 

Foreign Minister Sugiono emphasized that many of BRICS’ objectives align with Indonesia’s aspirations. Beyond advocating for a more inclusive multilateral system, BRICS often raises issues that Indonesia champions on the international stage, such as Palestinian independence. 

 

Therefore, BRICS could serve as an effective platform for Indonesia to discuss and advance shared interests with other developing nations. 

 

"This is also an implementation of our independent and active foreign policy," he stated on Monday (December 2). 

 

He clarified that Indonesia’s participation in BRICS should not be interpreted as siding with any particular power or bloc. Instead, it reflects Indonesia’s role as a "bridge builder," fostering communication between conflicting parties. 

 

"It’s more about being a bridge builder, a mediator that can help reconcile opposing interests," he said. 

 

Sugiono acknowledged feedback from various parties urging Indonesia to reconsider its intention to join BRICS. However, Indonesia remains committed to joining BRICS, asserting its sovereign right to determine partnerships that serve its national interests. 

 

"We are still moving forward with joining. No, there hasn’t been any change. Once again, if it turns out to pose a threat to national interests, we can always revisit the decision," Sugiono concluded. 

 

Original article here

This article is published in partnership with Katadata