Azerbaijan applies to join BRICS

BAKU, Azerbaijan – In a significant diplomatic move, Azerbaijan has formally applied to join the BRICS group of emerging economies, coinciding with Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to the country. Aykhan Hajizade, spokesperson for Azerbaijan's foreign ministry, confirmed the application on Tuesday, highlighting the nation’s ambition to become part of the bloc that includes major players like Russia, China, and India. The BRICS alliance, originally founded in 2009, has expanded to include nine members, with discussions of further growth ongoing. Putin's visit to Baku was marked by discussions on enhancing economic and trade relations, which Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev described as progressing successfully despite global challenges. The two leaders have maintained a strong relationship, having signed a "declaration on allied interaction" shortly before Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This partnership is particularly crucial for Azerbaijan, which has emerged as a key energy supplier to Europe, especially in light of the continent's efforts to reduce dependence on Russian oil and gas. The BRICS bloc has positioned itself as a counterweight to Western dominance, with aspirations to replace the U.S. dollar in international trade. Azerbaijan's application comes at a time when the group is experiencing significant expansion, with new members like Iran and Egypt joining earlier this year. Political analysts suggest that Azerbaijan's alignment with BRICS could bolster its economic ties while ensuring Moscow's support amid ongoing tensions with Armenia. As Azerbaijan navigates its geopolitical landscape, the implications of its BRICS membership bid could reshape regional dynamics, particularly in light of its recent military actions in the contested Karabakh region, which have strained relations with Armenia and tested Russia's role as a regional peacekeeper.