On Wednesday, a senior Kremlin official announced that Turkey has submitted an application for full membership in the BRICS economic bloc, which is currently chaired by Russia. This development marks a significant move by Turkey, a NATO member, as it seeks to align more closely with emerging economies in response to the West’s global influence.

Yuri Ushakov, an aide to President Vladimir Putin, informed the media that Turkey’s application will be reviewed. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has previously voiced his nation’s aspirations to join the BRICS alliance, as confirmed by Omer Celik, spokesman for Erdogan’s ruling party. However, Celik did not concretely affirm the submission of a formal application during his statements this week.

The BRICS bloc, which initially comprised Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded to include South Africa in 2010. Recently, it welcomed Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates into its fold, with Saudi Arabia also expressing intentions to join. Additionally, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have formally applied, demonstrating the bloc’s growing appeal among nations striving to amplify their voices on the global stage.

The alliance aims to reshape the global order dominated by Western powers and advocates for a more equitable international system and the reform of significant institutions such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.

President Erdogan, who has held power for over twenty years, continues to seek a more independent foreign policy for Turkey, enhancing its influence on an international level. Amid frustrations surrounding stalled European Union membership talks, Erdogan emphasized the need for Turkey to establish relations concurrently with both Eastern and Western nations.

Since its accession to NATO in 1952, Turkey has pursued EU membership since 2005; however, ongoing disputes, including concerns regarding democratic practices under Erdogan’s administration, have hindered progress in negotiations. In light of these challenges, Turkey’s application to join BRICS reflects a strategic pivot towards alliances that may offer alternative pathways for development and collaboration.

In a meeting scheduled for next month in Russia, BRICS is expected to evaluate the inclusion of new member states. Earlier in the year, President Putin warmly welcomed Turkey’s interest in these proceedings, affirming Moscow’s support of Ankara’s aspirations for integration within the alliance. The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, reiterated Turkey’s express interest in joining BRICS just days prior, indicating a potential shift in geopolitical alliances that may reshape the dynamics of international relations.

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