Russia confirmed on Monday (December 23) that nine nations have agreed to join BRICS as partner states, with their status becoming official on January 1, 2025, as reported by foreign media. A report from TASS, citing Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, revealed that a total of thirteen nations were invited to join the newly established category of BRICS partner countries during a recent summit in Kazan. Nine nations—Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan—have already confirmed their readiness to join.
Ushakov highlighted, "One of the important results of the summit [in Kazan] was the establishment of the category of BRICS partner countries and coming to terms on a list of 13 states. Invitations were sent to these states. As of this time, confirmations of readiness to become a BRICS partner country have been received from Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan."
He further added, "From January 1, 2025, they will officially acquire the status of BRICS partner states." Ushakov also noted that responses from four additional countries are anticipated soon and mentioned that Eritrea has expressed interest in cooperation with BRICS.
Partner states will be invited to participate in BRICS summits, foreign ministers' meetings, and other forums, including security discussions and parliamentary events. "We also believe it is right to involve partners in meetings of high representatives in charge of security issues, parliamentary forum and other events," stated Ushakov.