Indonesia Evaluates Strategic Benefits of Joining BRICS

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s government is carefully assessing the advantages and alignment of joining international forums, including the BRICS economic bloc, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry’s spokesperson, Rolliansyah Soemirat, emphasized during a media briefing on Thursday that the nation’s participation in any global forum is guided by national interests and is not a matter of joining “for the sake of participation.”

“We have conducted many studies on existing forums to determine how Indonesia will participate,” Soemirat stated, affirming Indonesia’s commitment to its “free and active” foreign policy, which allows it to maintain neutrality while engaging in global alliances.

An internal study by the Indonesian government supports the potential benefits of joining BRICS, which would grant wider market access for the national economy and industry. “The most important thing is that Indonesia’s participation in any forum has been clearly reviewed internally and is certain to provide full benefits for the nation and state,” Soemirat said.

With its official declaration of interest in BRICS membership, Indonesia has transitioned to an “interested country” status, the initial phase for new member accession. Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono further confirmed Indonesia’s keen interest in joining BRICS, particularly after participating in the BRICS Plus Summit in Kazan. Minister Sugiono noted that Indonesia views BRICS as a strategic platform to advocate for the needs of developing countries and the Global South, aligning with its principles of sovereignty and active international engagement.