BRICS to add 9 new partner nations in 2025 with 4 more expected

BRICS is set to expand in 2025 by welcoming nine new partner states, marking a significant shift in global alliances.

Starting January 1, 2025, countries including Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan will officially become BRICS partner states, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.

The announcement follows a BRICS leaders’ summit in Kazan, where the creation of a new category for BRICS partner countries was discussed.

Ushakov confirmed that invitations were sent to 13 states, with several countries already confirming their participation.

"One of the important results of the summit was the establishment of the category of BRICS partner countries, and coming to terms on a list of 13 states. Invitations were sent to these states," Ushakov stated, adding that four more countries are expected to respond soon.

Countries like Eritrea have also shown interest in joining BRICS, signaling the growing global desire to align with the bloc.

BRICS partner representatives will be invited to attend key events, including BRICS summits and foreign ministers' sessions.

Ushakov also emphasised Russia's pivotal role in guiding BRICS through this expansion.

He highlighted the importance of ensuring the smooth integration of new members into the bloc’s framework.

"We believe it is right to involve partners in meetings of high representatives in charge of security issues, parliamentary forums, and other events," Ushakov noted.