BANGKOK: Thailand will officially become a partner of BRICS starting January 1, marking a significant step in its international diplomatic and economic engagements, as announced by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 30.
According to Lao News Agency, this partnership is anticipated to bolster international collaboration and open up new avenues for Thailand and BRICS members, particularly in the sectors of trade, investment, and tourism. The ministry emphasized that the partnership is poised to enhance Thailand’s role in multilateral cooperation and strengthen its relationships with BRICS nations.
BRICS, an international bloc formed in 2006, is a coalition of emerging markets and developing countries with high potential. It currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Thailand’s inclusion as a partner aligns with its strategic goals to engage more deeply in international economic and political frameworks.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs also highlighted Thailand’s readiness to work with BRICS through various multilateral cooperation frameworks, such as ASEAN, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). These platforms are seen as critical for enhancing Thailand’s international standing and collaborative efforts.
As Brazil is set to assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2025, Thailand is expected to participate in several meetings to further advance BRICS cooperation, according to the ministry. This engagement is likely to support Thailand’s objectives in international diplomacy and economic development.
Thailand was among 13 nations named as new partner countries by BRICS on October 24, reflecting the bloc’s expanding influence and the increasing interest of nations seeking to engage with its economic and political agendas.