Zimbabwe has formally begun the process of joining the BRICS group of emerging economies, following high-level diplomatic discussions with Brazil, the bloc’s current chair. The announcement came after a meeting held in Harare on Monday between Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira, and Brazil’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Vilmar Rogeiro Coutinho Jr.
The meeting marked a significant moment in Zimbabwe’s foreign policy strategy, as the southern African nation seeks to deepen its international partnerships and integrate into influential global economic platforms. During the engagement, Murwira confirmed that Zimbabwe had submitted its formal intention to align with BRICS, and received detailed guidance from Brazil on the procedures involved in the membership process.
“We have had a productive exchange and received thorough advice from Brazil, which currently chairs BRICS,” Murwira told reporters. “We are already in motion, implementing the steps that have been recommended.”
Brazil assumed the rotating presidency of BRICS earlier this year, a bloc initially founded by Brazil, Russia, India, and China in 2006. South Africa joined in 2010, becoming the first African member. In 2024, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia, reflecting BRICS’s growing role in shaping south-south cooperation and offering an alternative framework to traditional Western-led institutions.
Murwira emphasized the importance of Brazil’s support during this early stage of Zimbabwe’s application, highlighting the significance of building consensus and following established procedures. He noted that Zimbabwe’s interest in BRICS stems from the bloc’s commitment to mutual development, sovereignty, and cooperation among developing nations.
Ambassador Coutinho welcomed Zimbabwe’s interest, stating that the dialogue between the two countries was constructive and pointed toward a shared goal.
“Zimbabwe has expressed a clear and determined intention to become part of BRICS,” Coutinho said. “We are working closely together to ensure that this aspiration can be successfully realized.”
Zimbabwe’s pursuit of BRICS membership aligns with its broader strategy to diversify international alliances, reduce dependence on traditional Western partnerships, and position itself within global discussions on trade, finance, and development. The government views BRICS as a platform that reflects the interests and priorities of the Global South.
Established with the goal of enhancing collaboration among emerging economies, BRICS has expanded its influence over the years by advocating for inclusive growth, fairer global governance structures, and the reform of international financial institutions.
Zimbabwe’s entry, if approved, would mark another step in BRICS’s outreach to African states, further strengthening the continent’s voice within the bloc.