Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
RUSSIA supports Zimbabwe’s application to join the BRICS and welcomes its integration into the bloc, the country’s top envoy to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Nikolai Krasilnikov, has said.
In a wide-ranging interview, Amb Krasilnikov indicated that there were several levels of involvement, including as an observer, an invited participant at the next summit in India or by joining the New Development Bank.
“Russia strongly supports Zimbabwe’s keen interest in engaging with BRICS . . . there are several levels of involvement, and it’s up to Zimbabwe to choose its path — whether as an observer, an invited participant at the next summit in India or by focusing on
joining the New Development Bank,” he said.
“Decisions in BRICS are made by consensus, but as far as Russia is concerned, we welcome Zimbabwe’s integration into the BRICS family.”
Brazil, Russia, India and China founded the economic bloc in 2009 before South Africa joined a year later.
BRICS members are pushing for a new economic order, one that breaks from the Western-aligned financial order.
Member countries of the grouping are emerging economies that have joined forces to advance their interests and influence on the global stage.
The formation of BRICS in 2009 has continued to mark a significant shift in the balance of global power and economic influence.
Over the years, Zimbabwe has shown interest in joining the New Development Bank, with Russia, South Africa and Brazil pledging support.
Amb Krasilnikov said Zimbabwe’s foreign policy, anchored in being a friend to all and enemy to none, is in tandem with BRICS’ values.
He also said Harare is a formidable force on the global arena, hence Russia would always be in support of its admission into BRICS as well as its candidature for non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2027-2028.
Russia is serving as president of the UNSC this month.
“We value Zimbabwe as a responsible member of the international community — and we need Zimbabwe in the Security Council as a trusted and constructive voice.”
