Phnom Penh (FN), Jan. 6 – Thailand is making headlines just three months after its government approved an official letter of intent for the country to become a member of BRICS on 28 May 2024. Although expressed its earnest interest in becoming a BRICS member, Thailand was only granted a “Partner Country” status alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. Such a manoeuvre is not entirely surprising as these countries are trying to adopt a more diverse foreign policy, given the growing uncertainty caused by intense great power rivalry. For Thailand, in particular, one may argue that its interest in BRICS is part of the country’s broader foreign policy objective that aims to link admission in international organisations with long-term economic growth at home.

It is essential to recognise that opting for BRICS is Thailand’s attempt to juggle multiple fronts simultaneously. At large, Thailand’s BRICS gambit may recalibrate the country’s proactive diplomacy while pushing economic growth amidst the US-China rivalry.

Read AVI Commentary: “Thailand's BRICS Gambit and Its Implications”.
=FRESH NEWS