Argentina Dismisses Interest in BRICS: Insight from President's Aide

• Javier Milei Emerges Winner in Argentinian Presidential Election
• Milei's Stance on BRICS Membership
• Argentina's Future BRICS Participation Uncertain
• Possible Expansion of BRICS Alliance

Javier Milei Emerges Winner in Argentinian Presidential Election

In a contested election on Monday, right-wing populist Javier Milei secured victory, becoming the president-elect of Argentina. The triumph saw Milei snatch the reins from the incumbent finance minister, Sergio Massa. Milei bagged 56% of the votes, while Massa trailed behind with 46%.

Milei's Stance on BRICS Membership

Throughout his campaign, the president-elect pledged to refuse BRICS membership for Argentina if elected. He was explicit in stating his intention of Argentina shying away from doing business with communist countries, a comment targeted at the BRICS association. In further remarks, Milei referred to Russia and China as assassin government, questioning their motives in extending an invitation to Iran to become part of the bloc. He referenced the bombing of a Jewish center by Iran in Buenos Aires in 1994, describing it as an unhealed wound.

Argentina's Future BRICS Participation Uncertain

With Milei's tenure set to commence on December 10, 2023, Argentina might become the first nation to decline the BRICS overture. Diana Mondino, the president-elect's chief adviser on foreign issues, confirmed that Argentina doesn't foresee joining the BRICS alliance. Speaking to Russian news agency Sputnik, Mondino stated, We do not understand the interest.

She further elaborated that Argentina's participation will depend on whether they perceive any benefits from the membership in the future. She clarified that if such an advantage presents itself, Argentina will consider it. However, present indications strongly suggest that Argentina may not join BRICS on January 1, 2024. Milei has previously stated that Argentina will only engage in business dealings with the civilized side of the world, a clear reference to non-Communist nations.

Possible Expansion of BRICS Alliance

The BRICS Plus bloc may potentially witness the inclusion of five out of six countries come January next year. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Iran, and Ethiopia are all likely to join the alliance from 2024 onwards. This expansion could significantly strengthen the alliance's influence on global trade, possibly posing a formidable challenge to the West in the years ahead.

Edited by Jonathan Stoker