Malaysia applies for BRICS membership

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Sunday his country has sent an application to BRICS rotating chair Russia to join the group.

Malaysia's desire to join the organization, comprising Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa, was the main essence of discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as part of a two-day working visit, the prime minister's office said in a statement.

Besides Malaysia's application to BRICS, various aspects of bilateral cooperation were also discussed, including investment and trade, science and technology, agriculture, defense and military, education, as well as tourism and culture, the prime minister said.

"Our discussions primarily centered on Malaysia's recent application for membership in the BRICS alliance, which Russia currently chairs. This potential membership holds substantial promise for both nations and underscores our commitment to fostering robust international collaboration," he said.

For his part, Lavrov said Russia welcomes Malaysia's interest in BRICS and will help promote this interest.

Xinhua