Indonesia Joins BRICS As Full Member; PM Modi Welcomes President Prabowo At Brazil Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially welcomed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as a full-fledged member of the BRICS grouping during the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday (Indian time), underscoring the country’s growing global influence and its central role in shaping multilateral dialogue.

Speaking to reporters about the Prime Minister’s engagement at the summit, MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi stated,, “The Prime Minister thanked President Lula for his warm hospitality and welcomed the Indonesian President for joining BRICS as a full member.”

President Prabowo later posted on the social media platform, sharing insights from the summit.

Taking to X, he posted, “With the theme ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,’ I, together with the leaders of member countries, exchanged views on various global challenges currently faced, while formulating joint strategies to enhance the role and solidarity of Southern countries moving forward.”

“Indonesia is committed to continuously advocating for fair and inclusive global cooperation, as well as promoting national interests in the fields of economy, finance, education, and technology. This commitment aligns with the main pillars of BRICS discussions, which emphasise strengthening the multilateral system to achieve sustainable global prosperity,” the post further added.

Highlighting the weight of the summit, Ravi noted that Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva highly valued Prime Minister Modi’s presence.

“The Prime Minister’s visit elevated the entire summit. It reflects the value President Lula placed on India’s role and the fact that India will take over the chair next year. PM Modi’s participation assumes greater significance and importance, given that background,” Ravi asserted.

India’s strategic influence in BRICS

As a founding BRICS member, India’s influence stood out, with PM Modi’s participation viewed as crucial ahead of the country’s 2026 presidency.

The summit, themed ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance’, came at a time of shifting global dynamics.

Ravi said, “This two-day summit assumes significant importance in the context of fast-changing global developments.”

This year’s BRICS meeting featured a broader structure, reflecting the bloc’s expanding role in global affairs.

In total, the summit brought together 11 permanent members, nine partner countries, eight guest nations, and leaders of seven international organisations.

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