"The attractiveness of the BRICS cooperation mechanism continues to increase"
On August 24th, the 15th special press conference of BRICS leaders announced the invitation to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Iran, and Ethiopia to officially become members of the BRICS family. Balu Demisi, a policy researcher at the University of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, said, "The historic step taken by the BRICS expansion demonstrates the increasing attractiveness of the BRICS cooperation mechanism."
"We are in a world of deepening multipolarity," said Demisi. The establishment of the BRICS cooperation mechanism will help promote the transformation and improvement of the global governance system. Adhering to and practicing true multilateralism is the common call of emerging market countries and developing countries. The BRICS countries will cooperate in an open, inclusive, and win-win manner, which will enhance the representation and voice of developing countries on the international stage. "Ethiopia's accession to the BRICS Cooperation Mechanism is driven by the pursuit of equality, fairness, mutual benefit, and multilateralism, and is the right choice in line with its own interests."
The BRICS cooperation mechanism is an important cooperation mechanism between emerging market countries and developing countries, as well as an important platform for South South cooperation, which embodies the earnest expectations of developing countries. Ethiopia ranks among the top countries in Africa in terms of population and is one of the fastest growing economies in Africa. Its capital, Addis Ababa, is the headquarters of the African Union. Demisi believes that Ethiopia's accession to the BRICS cooperation mechanism will bring more development opportunities to it.
In Demisi's view, joining the BRICS cooperation mechanism will promote Ethiopia's economic development and further deepen solidarity and cooperation among African countries, which is of great significance for regional and even global development. Demisi stated that through the BRICS cooperation mechanism, Ethiopia can engage in closer cooperation with BRICS countries, obtain funding and technological support from emerging economies, and promote economic diversification and innovative development. Ethiopia can strengthen cooperation with BRICS countries in areas such as international trade, cross-border commerce, data sharing, and digital trade to enhance international competitiveness.
"China plays a crucial role in the BRICS cooperation mechanism," Demisi said. China's proposal of the "BRICS+" cooperation model helps to expand the influence of BRICS countries and benefit more developing countries. This cooperation model has received widespread positive responses. "By sharing experiences, providing assistance, and promoting cooperation, BRICS countries, along with other emerging market countries and developing countries, jointly promote global development, which is of great significance for establishing a just and reasonable international order, strengthening South South cooperation, and addressing global challenges."
