Turkiye Seeks BRICS Membership Amidst Global Power Shift

Turkiye has applied for full membership in the BRICS bloc, aiming to strengthen its global influence. This move comes as BRICS, originally founded by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and later joined by South Africa, continues to expand. The bloc aims to balance the global influence dominated by Western nations.

Turkiye has officially applied for full membership in the BRICS bloc, a senior Kremlin official announced. This development signals a strategic move as BRICS, currently chaired by Russia, seeks to diversify its membership and counter Western global influence.

Yuri Ushakov, President Vladimir Putin's foreign affairs aide, confirmed on Wednesday that Turkiye's application would be considered. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed ambition for BRICS membership multiple times, reflecting his administration's desire for a more independent and influential foreign policy.

BRICS, established in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and joined by South Africa in 2010, recently expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. The alliance aims to amplify emerging economies' voices and reform institutions like the UN and IMF. Erdogan's pursuit of BRICS membership aligns with his efforts to enhance Turkiye's global standing amid stalled EU accession talks and democratic concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)