Muthomi Ireri
Malaysia has formally applied to join the BRICS group of nations, as announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday. This statement came during his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who was on a two-day visit to Malaysia.
Russia, holding the rotating chair of BRICS this year, has expressed its support for Malaysia’s membership bid. Prime Minister Anwar emphasized that joining BRICS would demonstrate Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation. He also discussed enhancing bilateral relations with Russia, focusing on key areas like investment, trade, science and technology, agriculture, defense, education, and tourism.
Lavrov welcomed Malaysia’s interest in BRICS and pledged Russia’s support in advancing its membership.
The BRICS group, established in 2006, originally included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It expanded in January to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The group’s combined population now stands at about 3.5 billion people, accounting for 45% of the world’s population, with a collective economy worth over $28.5 trillion, representing about 28% of the global economy.
Dj Vnyash
