Indonesia is currently seeking membership in BRICS; a move seen as a strategic effort to expand its economic reach and strengthen its international role. Here’s what you need to know about this significant step, its rationale, and its potential benefits for Indonesia’s future.
Why Does Indonesia Want to Join BRICS?
BRICS offers a collaborative platform for developing countries, and Indonesia views this as a strategic opportunity. Under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership, the “good neighbor” policy encourages building partnerships without aligning with any particular bloc. Here’s why Indonesia is pursuing this membership:
Strengthening Economic Security: Access to BRICS funding would enable Indonesia to advance crucial development projects, especially in the food and energy sectors.
Solidarity with the Global South: Through BRICS, Indonesia can advocate for the interests of developing nations, strengthen cooperation, and promote economic equity.
Key Benefits for Indonesia
- Broader Economic Network
BRICS represents about 35% of the global economy, giving Indonesia a valuable opportunity to expand trade relations and enhance its international competitiveness.
- Support for National Programs
Membership in BRICS aligns with Indonesia’s agenda to address poverty and enhance human resource development, crucial priorities for the country.
- Balanced Global Partnerships
Joining BRICS does not preclude cooperation with Western nations. Indonesia maintains its role as a bridge between developing and developed countries, staying active in other international forums like the G20 and G7.
Indonesia stresses that its BRICS membership is part of a free and active foreign policy, without aligning with any specific bloc. This aligns with Indonesia’s anti-colonial stance, prioritizing fairness and equality in its international relationships.
Looking Ahead with BRICS
As a member of BRICS, Indonesia anticipates several concrete opportunities:
- Infrastructure Development Funding
The BRICS Development Bank could provide essential financing for major projects across Indonesia, supporting regional and national growth.
- A Voice in Global Policy
Indonesia will participate in key discussions on global trade and economic stability, allowing it to shape policies that impact international markets
- Strengthening ASEAN Collaboration
With other ASEAN members, like Malaysia and Thailand, showing interest in BRICS, Indonesia can leverage this momentum to boost Southeast Asian cooperation within BRICS, amplifying collective influence on the global stage.
BRICS membership represents a strategic move for Indonesia to further its national interests, deepen solidarity with other developing nations, and uphold its independent stance on the global stage. This decision reflects Indonesia’s commitment to growth and its readiness to play a key role in shaping the future of the global economy.