Turkey has officially submitted an application to join the BRICS bloc, which includes major emerging economies such as Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The announcement was made by Ömer Çelik, the spokesman for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP). He emphasized that President Erdogan has consistently expressed Turkey's desire to be part of BRICS, stating, "Our president has repeatedly stated that we want to become a member of BRICS. The process is underway."
The BRICS group, initially formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded to include South Africa in 2010, and has since welcomed additional members like Egypt and Iran. Çelik reiterated that Turkey does not view BRICS as a competing alternative to other international structures, including its ongoing candidacy for European Union membership. He assured that any concrete developments regarding Turkey's potential BRICS membership would be communicated to the public.
This move reflects Turkey's strategic interest in diversifying its international alliances and participating in significant global platforms. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, Turkey's bid to join BRICS could enhance its influence in international economic discussions and foster closer ties with other emerging economies.
- Turkey's application to join BRICS comes at a time when the bloc is increasingly seen as a counterbalance to Western-led institutions. The inclusion of Turkey, a nation straddling both Europe and Asia, could bring a unique perspective to BRICS discussions, potentially influencing the group's policies and initiatives.
- BRICS has been expanding its membership and influence in recent years, with discussions ongoing about including additional countries. Turkey's entry could signify a shift in economic alliances, particularly as it seeks to strengthen its position amidst global economic challenges.
- The Turkish government has been vocal about its ambitions on the global stage, and joining BRICS may provide new opportunities for trade, investment, and political collaboration with other member states.
