Thailand has officially submitted its letter of application for BRICS membership, aiming to change into the primary member from Southeast Asia. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Nikondej Balankura expressed optimism in regards to the positive response from BRICS.
According to the Global Times, experts indicate that the BRICS expansion reflects the will of the countries of the South to strengthen cooperation and achieve a more equitable world order. Thailand’s membership could also pave the way in which for other ASEAN countries to affix BRICS.
Thailand’s goal is to change into a BRICS member on the leaders’ summit in Russia in October. It is anticipated that by joining, Thailand can increase its influence in South-South cooperation and contribute to the worldwide order, in keeping with Xinhua.
Thailand emphasizes the importance of multilateralism and the role of developing countries within the international arena, consistent with BRICS principles. It can also be believed that membership will enhance Thailand’s capabilities on the international stage.
In addition to Thailand, several other countries have also applied to affix BRICS, reminiscent of Venezuela, Kazakhstan and Belarus.
According to Wang Youming, director of the Institute of Developing Country Studies on the China Institute of International Studies in Beijing, joining BRICS offers Thailand latest opportunities in investment, exports and technological cooperation. However, some parties in Thailand oppose the move, saying it could threaten Thailand’s position and credibility within the international arena.
Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa stressed that BRICS membership is just not about supporting any particular party or opposing other powers. It sees BRICS as an economic opportunity and a platform through which developing countries can play a greater role in the worldwide order.
