Malaysia Applies to Join BRICS Group of Nations

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Makes Announcement During Meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov

Malaysia has applied to join the BRICS group of nations, the country’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Sunday.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov who is on a two-day visit to Malaysia.

Russia is this year’s rotating chair of the BRICS group.

Potential Membership Underscores Commitment to International Collaboration

The Malaysian prime minister said the potential membership “underscores our commitment to fostering robust international collaboration.”

“We also explored avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on strengthening ties in key areas such as investment and trade, science and technology, agriculture, defense and military, education, and tourism and culture,” Anwar said.

Russia Welcomes Malaysia’s Interest in BRICS

For his part, Lavrov said Russia welcomes Malaysia’s interest in the group and will help to push for its membership.

About BRICS

The BRICS emerging-markets group, founded in 2006, until recently was made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. In January, it expanded to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

The group now has a combined population of about 3.5 billion, or 45% of the world’s inhabitants. Together its economies are worth more than $28.5tn – about 28% of the global economy.

Conclusion

Malaysia’s application to join the BRICS group is a significant development in the country’s foreign policy, underscoring its commitment to international cooperation and economic growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the BRICS group?
A: The BRICS group is an emerging-markets group that was founded in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It has since expanded to include other countries.

Q: Why has Malaysia applied to join the BRICS group?
A: Malaysia has applied to join the BRICS group to strengthen its international relations and economic ties with other member countries.

Q: What are the benefits of joining the BRICS group?
A: Joining the BRICS group can provide Malaysia with new opportunities for economic growth, increased trade and investment, and enhanced cooperation on global issues.