Among the large international coalitions that currently exist, one that stands out is the BRICS, an economic, political and social alliance composed of several emerging economies.
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The constitution of this group aims to represent those countries with development potential, while strengthening multilateral cooperation. And although at the beginning it was made up of five nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa)To date, more than ten have been integrated.
One of the countries that has put its options to join the bloc on the table is Colombia. In fact, the issue was addressed during the most recent visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to the national territory, and it was he himself who gave some clues about the direction this request could take.
According to a document presented by the Colombian Foreign Ministry, “President Petro expressed Colombia’s interest in joining the BRICS as a full member as soon as possible and President Lula welcomed this initiative and committed to promoting Colombia’s candidacy.”
But, What is the probability that this request will transcend and what implications would it have for the country?
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As Professor Mauricio Jaramillo, from the University of Rosario, explained to EL TIEMPO, there is a good possibility if one considers that The Brics is trying to reactivate and expand. However, it must be taken into account that it would not be a direct candidacy, since it would be taking place through the intermediation of Brazil.
The expert also points out that another key factor to consider is Argentina’s failed entry into the bloc after the resignation of President Javier Milei. This is because Colombia could act as a replacement and assume that place.
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Regarding the conditions to become part of this alliance, Professor Manuel Alejandro Rayran highlighted that “According to the document published by the Brics to be a member, the parameters are met. An emerging or developing country, a country committed to strengthening participation between peoples and seeking to build a new international system so that there is participation from relegated countries.”
Other aspects in favor of Colombia are the conditions related to the climate issue and the lack of sanctions directed at other members of the Brics.
Regarding the relationship with the United States, although Colombia’s entry into the bloc could generate friction in this regard, being a strategic ally that is not a member of NATO would serve as a counterweight to dispel the doubts that arise with its accession.
(See: Agreements signed by Colombia and Brazil to strengthen bilateral cooperation)
BRIEFCASE
*With information from EL TIEMPO
