Vietnam Joins BRICS As 'Partner Country' | What This Means

Last Updated:June 15, 2025, 03:08 IST

The official announcement by the Brazilian government underscored Vietnam’s strategic importance

The 'partner country' category within BRICS was established at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Image/X

In a significant diplomatic development, Vietnam has officially become a BRICS partner country. The Brazilian government, holding the rotating BRICS presidency as pro tempore Chair for 2025, announced this decision on Saturday. This move significantly expands BRICS’s influence, incorporating a vibrant Southeast Asian economy into its network.

Vietnam’s formal recognition follows a period of active engagement and clear interest from Hanoi. Pham Thu Hang, spokesperson for Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed Vietnam’s proactive stance, emphasising the nation’s aim to strengthen the voice and role of developing countries within multilateral frameworks. This aligns with Vietnam’s established foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation, and diversification of foreign relations, aspiring to be a trusted partner and an active, responsible member of the international community. Vietnam already holds a significant role in various international forums, including the United Nations, ASEAN, APEC, G7, G20, and the OECD.

The “partner country" category within BRICS was established at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. This classification enables countries to engage with the BRICS bloc without full membership, facilitating broader cooperation and dialogue. Vietnam joins as the tenth partner country, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.

The official announcement by the Brazilian government underscored Vietnam’s strategic importance. With a population nearing 100 million and a dynamic economy, Vietnam is deeply integrated into global value chains, making it a significant player in the Asian region. Brazil highlighted Vietnam’s shared commitment with BRICS members and partners to promoting a more inclusive and representative international order. Furthermore, Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to advance South-South cooperation and sustainable development align with the BRICS agenda.

This admission is considered a strategic move for Vietnam to diversify its global partnerships and strengthen its economic standing. As a partner country, Vietnam can participate in BRICS summits and various discussions, subject to consensual approval from member states. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s presence at the BRICS+ Summit in Kazan in October 2024, the first time a Vietnamese leader attended a main BRICS meeting, foreshadowed this development. The BRICS group, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded significantly in recent years. Full members now include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

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