Thailand has accepted an invitation to join the BRICS group as a partner country, paving the way for future full membership. The confirmation was relayed through Thailand's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Nikondet Phalangkun, shortly after leaders from team BRICS gathered for discussions on October 23, 2024. This marks a significant step for Thailand, which aspires to bolster its relationships with the nations within the organization to create favorable conditions for economic growth.
"Acquiring partner country status at BRICS is the most important step for Thailand toward joining BRICS as a full member in the future," said Phalangkun. This move enables Thailand to reinforce its influence and engage more effectively with developing nations by deepening bilateral trade and cooperation.
Officially, Thailand sent its acceptance letter to Russia on October 31, 2024. The partnership status not only signifies Thailand's aspirations but also aligns with BRICS's goal of promoting alternative powers against the political and economic dominance of North America and Western Europe. Currently, BRICS consists of five principal members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with recent expansions including Egypt, Iran, UAE, and Ethiopia joining the initiative this year.
Also noteworthy is the announcement from Russia's aide to the president, Yuri Ushakov, who revealed Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will become partner countries within BRICS starting January 1, 2025. Their inclusion will come alongside other nations such as Belarus, Bolivia, and Indonesia. Uzbekistan, which has previously shown hesitance about pursuing full membership, is now tied to this broader movement getting underway. According to Ushakov, "We also believe it is right to attract partners to the meetings of senior officials who oversee security issues.”
The inclusion of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan highlights BRICS's strategy to expand partnerships with key players across the globe, aiming to create new economic and political networks. The decision is expected to create opportunities for collaboration during separate meetings and on various platforms of high importance, including those focusing on security issues.
This expansion of partnerships mirrors the increasing global dynamic wherein countries seek alliances beyond their traditional partners. Throughout this process, the rise of BRICS as a counterbalance to Western-led organizations has gained more traction with countries exploring alternatives to the traditional hegemonic influence.
The expansion also poses challenges from the United States, shown by the threats from former President Donald Trump who warned BRICS countries of imposing tariffs if they pursued creating their currency and distancing themselves from the dollar. Trump's remarks came amid rising concerns about the motivations behind BRICS's endeavors to develop economic independence from Western monopolies. He stated, "If BRICS nations try to create their currency and abandon the dollar, they will face tariffs of 100%."
Addressing these apprehensions, Ryabkov communicated the organization's willingness to explain BRICS’s intentions, asserting they do not intend to undermine the dollar. Ryabkov reiterated, "The organization draws important lessons from flawed American policies," indicating BRICS remains committed to providing alternative routes for economic collaboration without direct confrontation with existing financial systems.
The cumulative population of BRICS member countries totals around 3.5 billion, over 45% of the global populace, with their economies accounting for approximately 28% of the world’s economic output, emphasizing significant influence as relationships and partnerships evolve.
Analysts view the BRICS alliance's expansion amid current geopolitical tensions as characteristic of new alliances forming globally, reflecting the need for countries to diversify their partnerships. With Thailand stepping closer to BRICS influence and Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan cementing their roles, the organization embodies the aspirations of many developing countries aiming to redefine their positions on the global stage.
Overall, as BRICS continues to grow and adapt its partnerships, the world will undoubtedly watch these developments closely, noting the balance of power within international economics and politics may shift dramatically as these nations forge stronger ties.
