Indonesia joins Brics in a boost for Global South on world stage

Indonesia has become the newest member of the Brics group of developing nations, in a move that could further bolster the Global South. Brazil, the president of the bloc this year, announced the formal entry of Indonesia into Brics as a full member on Monday, according to a statement by its ministry of foreign affairs. Brics countries unanimously approved Indonesia's entry into the group, it said.
"Brics is an important platform for Indonesia to strengthen South-South cooperation, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of Global South nations are heard and represented in global decision-making processes," Indonesia's ministry of foreign affairs said Tuesday. "We are fully dedicated to working with all Brics members, or with other parties, to realise the creation of a just, peaceful and prosperous world." It's the latest move of Brics - established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - to expand the group that's positioned itself as an alternative to the US-led global order. It previously added Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the UAE to its ranks. Thailand and Malaysia have also expressed interest to join.