China suggests BRICS should raise a stronger voice on international issues

Banmi Iran and Argen Apply for BRICS Membership... First Time in 11 Years Since South Africa in 2011
Further Discussions Expected on International Payment Systems and Currency Swaps

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Iran and Argentina have submitted membership applications to BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other emerging economies led by China). This is the first time in 11 years since South Africa joined in 2011.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

BRICS is a massive economic bloc accounting for 40% of the world's population, 25% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and 18% of world trade. Chinese media welcome the expansion of BRICS membership, saying it helps jointly counter U.S. unilateralism.

Chinese state media such as Xinhua News Agency and Caijing reported on the 29th that Iran and Argentina recently submitted their BRICS membership applications, which was officially confirmed by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a press briefing the day before, "China, as the BRICS chair country this year, hopes to expand membership," adding, "China is having in-depth discussions with member countries and will establish criteria and procedures for expansion." He further noted that many countries, including Iran and Argentina, have expressed their intention to join BRICS.

Although BRICS is an economic bloc, it has been voicing opinions on international affairs and regional issues, increasing the likelihood that China will use BRICS as a tool to counter the United States in the future.

In fact, spokesperson Zhao said, "BRICS should have a stronger voice on major international and regional issues," and "BRICS must strive to protect the common interests of emerging and developing countries."

In this regard, the state-run Global Times cited experts saying that BRICS expansion will help stabilize the international order amid a situation where small factions (alliances) led by the U.S. and unilateral sanctions are being weaponized. Iran is a representative anti-U.S. country facing economic sanctions from the U.S. and Western bloc. Argentina has distanced itself from the U.S. since the moderate left-leaning Fernandez government took office in 2019.

The media particularly emphasized that Iran is an oil-producing country and Argentina is a major exporter of key grains such as soybeans, corn, and wheat. This is beneficial to China, a major importer of energy and food.

Peng Xingke, director of the BRICS Global Governance Center, explained, "If Iran is included among BRICS members, it will benefit the members in terms of resources (oil)."

Professor Zhu Zejin of Fudan University said, "There are many emerging countries concentrated in Latin America," adding, "Argentina's new membership will result in expanded cooperation and exchanges with other South American countries." He also suggested that additional African countries could join, noting that among more than 50 African countries, only South Africa is currently a member.

Chinese media called for greater united cooperation and efforts among developing countries to resist Western dominance, exploitation, and oppression led by the U.S., urging the expansion of BRICS influence. They also argued that further discussions on international payment systems and currency swaps should be conducted.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.