Despite the ongoing confusion regarding the country’s position within the economic alliance, the BRICS bloc and Saudi Arabia have met, with major points of discussion being unveiled. The nation had previously accepted an invitation to be among its first expanded members. However, that proved not to be the case, with major leadership not even attending the alliance’s 2024 Summit.
However, the two sides are still reportedly engaged in positive talks. Specifically, they have met to confront the potential for growing cooperation on a global scale. The move could have major ramifications for the coming year. Moreover, it could be a turning point that reestablishes Riyadh as a key BRICS ally.
Source: Reuters
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Saudi Arabia & BRICS Hold Key Discussion: Here’s What Was Said
The BRICS bloc has grown massively over the last year. Indeed, it had enacted a groundbreaking expansion in 2023, where four nations joined the collective. Specifically, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Iran, and Ethiopia became the first expansion countries since 2001.
Yet, one nation that had accepted, but did not join the bloc was Saudi Arabia. Indeed, the country was poised to be one of the most important additions to the economic alliance. Its dominance in the oil sector was expected to only strengthen the group’s position. However, the country would end up rejecting a full position within the bloc.
That hasn’t stopped the two sides from engaging in efforts to strengthen their relations. Indeed, BRICS has met with Saudi Arabia in recent discussions that sought to fortify their relationship. Specifically, reports how Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, recently talked.
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According to reports, the two sides discussed the success of the bloc’s 2024 Summit. Moreover, they affirmed the “importance of continued coordination between the two states” within economic collaborations. Finally, they both spoke highly of the ongoing trajectory of their nation’s partnerships.
However, they also highlighted the importance of their “readiness to further strengthen cooperation in political, trade, economic, and humanitarian spheres.” The bloc has recently shifted its focus amid an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.
With Donald Trump’s election taking place this month, the group has said they will no longer ditch the US dollar. Perhaps the absence of Western opposition makes continued partnership with Saudi Arabia more appealing to the Middle Eastern powerhouse.
