ZIMBABWE’S President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced that his country will soon join the BRICS economic bloc. The announcement came after Mnangagwa attended an economic forum in Russia, where he discussed Zimbabwe’s membership aspirations with key leaders of the bloc.
BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The bloc boasts a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of at least $25.85 trillion as of 2022, surpassing that of the United States.
Speaking in Russia over the weekend, Mnangagwa stated, ‘On joining BRICS, I discussed that issue with my dear brother, President Vladimir Putin of Russia, telling him that it is our desire to join the bloc. I also had earlier discussed it with my neighbour, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa. The prospects are good because none of the BRICS members are anti-Zimbabwe. We also have excellent relations with China and Brazil.’
Zimbabwe’s potential entry into BRICS underscores its strategic move to enhance economic cooperation and strengthen diplomatic ties with major emerging economies. Mnangagwa emphasised the positive relations Zimbabwe maintains with existing BRICS members, highlighting the country’s readiness to contribute to and benefit from the bloc’s collective economic power.
Joining BRICS could offer Zimbabwe significant economic opportunities, including increased trade, investment, and access to a larger market. As Zimbabwe prepares for this potential new chapter in its international relations, the nation’s leadership remains optimistic about the positive impacts on its economy and global standing.
With Zimbabwe poised to join the ranks of BRICS, the country aims to leverage its membership to foster sustainable economic growth and development, aligning itself with some of the world’s most dynamic and influential economies.
