The move is seen as a major turning point in BRICS history, and a sign of a gradual shift in global power dynamics, as the group continues to attract countries from the Global South.

Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, BRICS now accounts for nearly half of the world's population, more than a third of the global economy and contributes more than half of world economic growth.

Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy and the world's fourth most populous country, is the first Southeast Asian country to join BRICS since the group's expansion in 2023. Malaysia and Thailand also became new BRICS partners.

Last year, BRICS added new members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE and Iran, while more than 30 other countries are said to have applied to join the organization.

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry said joining BRICS is a strategic step to enhance cooperation with other developing countries and commit to building a fairer global system.

As BRICS enters an era of stronger cooperation, China has expressed its willingness to work together to promote the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said that cooperation among BRICS countries will become even stronger in the future.

In his speech at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, President Xi Jinping stressed the need to develop higher-quality cooperation and called on BRICS countries to build a strong multilateral mechanism that will serve as a driving force for the unity of the Global South and promote reforms in global governance.

Zhu Jiejin, a professor at Fudan University, said that the BRICS governance model, especially with its equal cooperation and mutual respect, is what increases the bloc's appeal.

He cited the New Development Bank (NDB) as an example, which is the first multilateral development bank established entirely by emerging economies and developing countries.

“Unlike the World Bank, the NDB ensures equality by giving all founding member countries equal voting rights, with no single country holding veto power. This institutional framework ensures fairness, mutual benefit and respect among members,” said Mr. Zhu.

BRICS has also emerged as a significant force in opposing protectionism and expanding global markets, with China's strong involvement in innovation and green development initiatives.

Last October, China announced the establishment of several key organizations to upgrade BRICS cooperation, including the BRICS Digital Ecosystem Cooperation Network, which has received active participation from many countries.

Lan Qingxin, director of the BRICS Research Center at the University of International Business and Economics, stressed that the expansive and inclusive nature of BRICS will continue to attract more countries, especially in the face of intensifying strategic competition among major powers.

On important issues such as geopolitical crises, the larger BRICS plays a leading role in amplifying the voices of the Global South in advocating for fairness and justice, and promoting dialogue and consultation to resolve disputes, contributing to security, stability and a favorable environment for development, Mr. Lan said.

Ngoc Anh (according to China Daily, Ground news)