Malaysia applied to join BRICS, officially
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia has submitted an application to join the BRICS to Russia, the current BRICS chairman.
“Malaysia has sent an application letter to Russia, the BRICS chair, expressing its openness to joining the organisation as a member state or strategic partner,” he said, reported FMT.
The Prime Minister’s Office stated that Malaysia’s desire to join the BRICS organisation was a key topic in Anwar’s discussion with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who made a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister at the Seri Perdana Complex today.
Upon Lavrov and his delegation’s arrival at 10 a.m. at the Seri Perdana Complex, they were welcomed by Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan. Also present were Defense Minister Khaled Nordin and Minister of Higher Education Zambry Abd Kadir.
During the nearly hour-long meeting, Anwar and Lavrov also discussed strengthening Malaysia-Russia relations and expanding cooperation in various sectors including trade, investment, security, defense, higher education, science and technology, tourism, and culture.
During the meeting, the current situation in Palestine was also discussed, including Malaysia’s emphasis on the urgent need for a lasting ceasefire and rapid humanitarian aid in Gaza, as well as advocating for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations (UN).
Regarding Ukraine, Anwar urged that dialogue and negotiation be pursued as a resolution to the conflict.
Russia expressed its support for Malaysia’s interest in BRICS and will assist in promoting this interest, said Sergey.
“Malaysia has expressed interest in strengthening its relationship with BRICS. We actively support this interest and, as chair, will help promote it,” the minister said at a press conference following his visit to Malaysia, reported Sputnik.
BRICS was established in 2009 to enhance cooperation among emerging economies, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined in 2010.
The bloc now encompasses a quarter of the global economy, represents 20% of international trade, and includes around 40% of the world’s population.