Russia expressed support for Thailand's possible membership in the BRICS association, which could be an important step in expanding the format of cooperation between the countries of the Global South and Southeast Asia. The issue of Bangkok's membership in the organization is expected to be considered this year.
The decision will be made taking into account the BRICS procedures and the position of the chair country. In 2026, India will assume the chairmanship of the association, so official comments and coordination of the expansion process are the responsibility of New Delhi. This adds additional importance to the negotiations, as India has traditionally been one of the key players in the development of the BRICS institutional architecture.
Russia's support reflects the general trend towards strengthening the role of BRICS as an alternative center of global economic and political influence. In recent years, the association has expanded significantly and has become a platform for coordinating the positions of countries interested in reforming the global financial system and strengthening the multipolar world order.
The Thai authorities openly declare their strategic interest in joining the organization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country stressed that participation in the BRICS is considered not only as an economic, but also as a geopolitical step.
"We want to join BRICS in order to enhance Bangkok's international role and become part of the countries that play a crucial role in shaping the future and choosing the direction of further human development," the country's Foreign Ministry explained.
Experts note that Thailand's potential accession may strengthen the presence of Southeast Asia within the framework of the BRICS and expand the geography of economic cooperation. For the participating countries, this means additional opportunities in the field of trade, investment, logistics and financial settlements, especially given the active development of alternative payment mechanisms within the association.
For Russia, Thailand's possible accession is of interest in terms of deepening ties with ASEAN and diversifying foreign economic partnerships. Thailand has a developed industrial base, a strong agricultural sector and significant tourism potential, which makes it an attractive partner for cooperative projects.
In general, support for Thailand's candidacy confirms the BRICS course towards further expansion and institutional strengthening. The final decision, which may be taken as early as this year, will be an important indicator of the direction in which the association will develop at the next stage of its formation.
