KAZAN, October 25. /TASS/. Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin has expressed strong interest in Serbia joining the BRICS group, citing the potential economic benefits that membership could bring.
In an interview with TASS, Vulin stated that joining BRICS would grant Serbia valuable access to major markets, including those of Russia, China, and India, as well as other BRICS member countries.
“It would be a great opportunity for us to get access to the Chinese, Russian, and Indian markets and the markets of other BRICS member countries. That would be just great,” Vulin said.
He emphasized that such a chance “presents itself just once, and it must be seized,” highlighting the strategic importance of Serbia’s potential membership in the economic bloc.
Balancing BRICS Aspirations and EU Relations
While the prospect of joining BRICS appears attractive, Vulin acknowledged the complexities of balancing Serbia’s existing aspirations to join the European Union (EU) with the pursuit of closer ties with BRICS countries.
He pointed out that although BRICS nations do not view Serbia’s EU aspirations as a problem, the EU might object to Belgrade’s potential alignment with the bloc.
“We are an independent country and we will behave in a way that will benefit Serbia and its people,” Vulin asserted, indicating that Serbia would prioritize its national interests.
However, he also acknowledged the lengthy efforts made by the country to join the EU, stating, “It would be quite irresponsible of us to suddenly say that this is no longer going to happen. Let’s wait for the Europeans to say it. I am sure we will hear it.”
Talks with Russian President Putin
During his visit to Kazan, Vulin had the opportunity to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he described as a “great honor.” He highlighted the contrast in approach between Russia and Western leaders when discussing Serbia’s future.
“During our meeting, [Putin] never once told us what we should or should not do. No, it was a conversation between partners,” Vulin explained.
In contrast, he noted that “when you talk to Western leaders, they always say what Serbia should do, or else there will be consequences.” The Serbian official’s comments underscored the nation’s desire for equal and respectful partnerships.
BRICS Summit in Kazan
The comments from Serbia’s deputy prime minister came at the conclusion of the 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan from October 22 to 24.
The summit marked Russia’s presidency of the group and included discussions on expanding the bloc, addressing global affairs, and resolving regional crises, such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The BRICS group, founded in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, later expanded to include South Africa in 2011.
The summit in Kazan was the first to welcome new members who joined on January 1, 2024: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The inclusion of these countries has broadened the group’s economic reach and global influence.
With growing interest from countries like Serbia, the bloc’s appeal as an alternative to Western-dominated institutions appears to be on the rise, potentially shaping the global economic landscape in the years to come.