LIVE UPDATES
The President of Argentina Javier Milei has officially communicated his decision to reject an invitation to join the BRICS group of major emerging economies. In letters sent to BRICS leaders, including those from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, Milei emphasized that Argentina's membership is deemed "not appropriate at this time," according to statements from the presidency released on Friday.
The BRICS bloc, seeking to challenge the Western-led global order, had announced in August its decision to admit six new members, including Argentina. The expansion, slated to take effect from January 1, 2024, was part of a strategic move to diversify and strengthen the grouping.
The letters, signed by President Milei and widely disseminated by various media outlets, outlined the president's stance on the matter. Milei, a libertarian figure who recently assumed office after a notable victory over Argentina's traditional political parties, had pledged during his campaign not to align Argentina with BRICS.
Highlighting a departure from the foreign policy of the previous administration, Milei's letters stated, "Some decisions made by the previous administration will be reviewed." This signals a shift in Argentina's approach to international relations under Milei's leadership, as the country reevaluates its participation in global alliances and organizations.
The rejection of BRICS membership by the newly-elected president reflects his commitment to shaping a distinct foreign policy that aligns with his political ideology and the expectations set during his election campaign. As Argentina undergoes a recalibration of its international stance, Milei's decisions are poised to influence the nation's role in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
