Turkey seeks BRICS membership amid global economic shifts

Turkey has formally applied for full membership in the BRICS bloc, as confirmed by a senior Kremlin official. This move comes amid Turkey's ongoing efforts to enhance its global influence and pursue a more independent foreign policy under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The BRICS alliance, which includes major emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aims to counterbalance Western dominance in global affairs. Turkey's application reflects its frustration with stalled EU membership talks and a desire to strengthen ties with both Eastern and Western nations. The BRICS group has recently expanded to include countries such as Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE, with Saudi Arabia also considering membership. Erdogan has expressed Turkey's aspiration to join the bloc multiple times, indicating a strategic shift in Turkey's foreign relations. The Kremlin has shown support for Turkey's application, with President Putin welcoming the interest and promising to assist in this endeavor. As Turkey seeks to navigate its geopolitical position, the BRICS membership could provide a platform for greater collaboration with other emerging economies. This aligns with Erdogan's vision of a more assertive Turkish role on the global stage, particularly as relations with the West have become increasingly strained. The upcoming BRICS meeting in Russia will discuss the potential inclusion of new members, including Turkey. This development signifies a broader trend of emerging economies seeking to amplify their voices in international affairs and reshape the global order, challenging the existing Western-led framework.