Zimbabwe initiates process to join BRICS

Zimbabwe has formally initiated its process to join the BRICS grouping of emerging economies, following high-level diplomatic discussions held in the capital between Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Amon Murwira and Brazil's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Vilmar Rogeiro Coutinho Jr. Brazil currently holds the rotating chairmanship of the BRICS bloc.

Speaking to reporters after the engagement on Monday, Minister Murwira revealed that the talks focused on Zimbabwe's formal application to become associated with BRICS, with Brazil providing valuable guidance on the procedural steps required for membership.

"We have had a lot of positive exchanges and good guidance from Brazil as chair of BRICS on steps that we must take, which we are already taking," said Murwira.

The BRICS group was originally founded in 2006, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - the latter joining in 2010 as the first African member. The bloc recently expanded its membership to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia, reflecting a growing emphasis on fostering south-south cooperation.

Brazilian Ambassador Coutinho expressed optimism about the collaboration between the two countries to ensure Zimbabwe's successful accession to the group.

"As the minister highlighted, Zimbabwe has expressed a clear interest in joining BRICS, and we are working together towards a successful conclusion," he said.

BRICS aims to strengthen economic development and cooperation among emerging economies through shared initiatives and mutual support. Zimbabwe's bid to join the bloc marks a strategic step towards deeper engagement in global economic affairs and enhanced partnerships within the developing world.