On the evening of June 14, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang responded to media questions regarding Brazil's recent announcement that Vietnam has been recognized as a BRICS partner.

Hang emphasized: "In line with our proactive and active approach to comprehensive and effective international integration, Vietnam has been making and will continue to make practical contributions to multilateral mechanisms, organizations, and forums. This serves peace, stability, cooperation, and development both regionally and globally."

Vietnam’s active participation in international bodies such as the United Nations, ASEAN, APEC, the G7 and G20 expansion formats, and the OECD underscores its desire to raise the voice and role of developing countries.

By becoming a BRICS Partner Country, Vietnam aims to contribute to and promote global unity and an inclusive, rules-based multilateral order. This aligns with the country’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and diversification of relations, positioning Vietnam as a trustworthy partner and responsible member of the international community.

Brazil, which currently holds the rotating BRICS presidency in 2025, cited Vietnam’s dynamic economy and population of nearly 100 million as key factors behind the decision.

In its official statement, Brazil noted: “Vietnam stands out as a vital partner in Asia. The country shares BRICS’ commitment to fostering a fairer, more inclusive international order. Its strong push for South-South cooperation and sustainable development reinforces the alignment of interests with the bloc.”

BRICS is a group of emerging economies representing over 40% of the world’s population and roughly one-quarter of global GDP. Initially formed in 2009 with Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the group later expanded to include South Africa, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Vietnam is now the 10th country to be recognized as a BRICS partner, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The “partner country” designation was created during the 2024 BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, allowing broader participation without requiring full membership.

Tran Thuong