Russia backs Zimbabwe's bid to join BRICS

Published: 3 hours ago

Russia has expressed strong support for Zimbabwe's bid to join the BRICS group of emerging economies, with Moscow's top envoy in Harare, Ambassador Nikolai Krasilnikov, confirming that his country welcomes Zimbabwe's integration into the bloc.

In an exclusive interview, Ambassador Krasilnikov said Russia endorses Zimbabwe's engagement with BRICS - an alliance originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - and is ready to assist the country in identifying the most suitable form of participation.

"Russia strongly supports Zimbabwe's keen interest in engaging with BRICS. There are several levels of involvement, and it's up to Zimbabwe to choose its path - whether as an observer, an invited participant at the next summit in India, or by focusing on joining the New Development Bank," he said.

He noted that while decisions in BRICS are made by consensus, Russia fully backs Zimbabwe's eventual admission, describing Harare as "a formidable force on the global stage."

"As far as Russia is concerned, we welcome Zimbabwe's integration into the BRICS family," the envoy added.

BRICS, established in 2009 and later expanded to include South Africa, seeks to create a new economic order that challenges Western-dominated financial systems. The bloc has since become a major voice for developing nations, advocating multipolarity and greater South-South cooperation.

Zimbabwe has repeatedly expressed interest in joining the New Development Bank (NDB), BRICS' financial arm, with Russia, South Africa and Brazil previously pledging to support Harare's application.

Ambassador Krasilnikov also praised Zimbabwe's foreign policy of "being a friend to all and enemy to none," saying it aligns closely with BRICS' founding principles of equality, mutual respect and non-interference.

He further revealed that Russia backs Zimbabwe's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term.

"We value Zimbabwe as a responsible member of the international community - and we need Zimbabwe in the Security Council as a trusted and constructive voice," he said.

Russia currently holds the rotating presidency of the UNSC this month, giving added weight to Ambassador Krasilnikov's endorsement.
- the herald

Tags: Brics,