Thailand aims to heighten its global influence by pursuing membership in the BRICS association and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development(OECD). Maris Sangiampongsa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that this strategic move is aligned with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s vision of expanding the nation’s engagement in global consortiums and addressing global issues holistically.
The foreign minister shared these ambitions during the BRICS Dialogue with Developing Countries in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. Sangiampongsa stated that Thailand’s enthusiasm to join BRICS stems from the group’s representation of promising emerging markets. He further added that being part of such a consortium would safeguard Thailand’s interests as a developing economy while ensuring that it does not undermine its relations with other associations.
Thailand’s membership proposal has been well-received, with numerous nations voicing their support. They believe that Thailand’s bid could fortify global interactions and enhance multilateral cooperation. Sangiampongsa underscored that Thailand’s neutral stance could potentially connect developing nations with BRICS, thereby bolstering the organization’s negotiating power and championing fair recognition for emerging economies.
The minister reiterated that Thailand’s proactive involvement in bilateral and multilateral dialogues is anticipated to uplift its global stature. This involvement will empower the nation to push for policies that ensure equal treatment and wider acceptance from developed nations.