In a surprising move, Argentine President Javier Milei formally declined the invitation for Argentina to join BRICS, notifying leaders of member nations through official letters.
Argentine President Javier Milei communicated his decision to reject BRICS membership in an official letter sent to the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Days before its anticipated inclusion in BRICS, Argentina, under the leadership of President Javier Milei, has withdrawn from the group. In letters addressed to the leaders of BRICS nations, Milei conveyed the reversal of the decision made by the previous government.
The term “BRIC” was coined by economist Jim O’Neill in 2001 to highlight the robust economic growth rates in Brazil, Russia, India, and China. The bloc expanded to include South Africa, becoming BRICS. In August of the current year, BRICS announced plans to add six new members, including Argentina. However, with Milei assuming the presidency, Argentina has opted out.
Milei, who took office in December, stated in his letters that Argentina’s membership in BRICS is “not considered appropriate at this time.” He emphasized that his foreign policy differs significantly from that of the previous government, indicating a review of certain decisions made by the prior administration.
During his election campaign, Milei pledged not to join BRICS and expressed alignment with the geopolitical interests of the United States and Israel. The formal rejection comes ahead of the scheduled expansion of BRICS, set to take effect from January 1, 2024.
This surprising turn of events highlights the shifting foreign policy direction under Milei’s leadership, marking a departure from the country’s previous stance. As Argentina withdraws from BRICS, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the nation’s geopolitical relationships.
