Defence Redefined

Published on 03/09/2024 at 08:02

Turkey submitted a request to join the BRICS months ago, as reported by the US network Bloomberg on Monday.

Specifically, the sources cited by Bloomberg reportedly stated that Turkey proceeded to submit the application due to its frustration over the years-long lack of progress in the process of joining the European Union (EU).

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government believes the geopolitical center of gravity is shifting away from developed economies, the sources said.

The country’s new diplomatic thrust reflects its ambitions to cultivate ties with all sides in a multipolar world while fulfilling its obligations as a member of NATO.

The candidacy is also partly a result of disagreements with other NATO members, as Turkey continues to maintain close ties with Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Turkey’s foreign ministry and presidency declined to comment, according to Bloomberg.

The representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Zakharova, in her statement last June regarding Turkey’s accession, stated that the Union’s doors are open. 

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, on the other hand, had stated that Turkey is in discussions and negotiations with the member states and that they are currently in the process of development.

BRICS is an international political and economic organization representing the largest emerging markets. In its current composition, ten countries participate in the organization: Russia, India, China, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Argentina, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Saudi Arabia.

Also read: South Africa | Summit of BRICS countries will consider the possibility of adding new members