Thailand Eyes BRICS Spotlight: How India Holds the Key to Membership

Updated: December 02, 2025 10:20

Image Source : Nikkei Asia

Thailand has formally requested India’s support to join BRICS as a full member during India’s 2026 BRICS chairmanship. The Thai foreign ministry emphasized strengthening regional integration and multilateral cooperation, positioning Thailand as a bridge between BRICS and Southeast Asian forums like ASEAN.

Thailand is intensifying its efforts to secure full membership in BRICS, appealing to India for backing during India’s upcoming BRICS chairmanship in 2026. This advance follows Thailand’s designation as a BRICS partner country effective January 2025, which allows participation in limited meetings and economic programs. The Thai Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to multilateralism and regional cooperation during a recent meeting between Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

Thailand sees joining BRICS as vital for enhancing its international standing and boosting cooperation among developing economies. The country aims to leverage BRICS membership to increase its role as a strategic connector between BRICS nations and Southeast Asian alliances, including ASEAN, APEC, and BIMSTEC. Thailand also signaled readiness to collaborate with India on strengthening regional integration amid global geopolitical challenges.

Historically, Thailand submitted its formal letter of intent to join BRICS in June 2024, and it expressed the desire for a swift accession process alongside other interested countries. This move aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy to expand its influence, strengthen economic ties, and partake in shaping global economic governance alongside other emerging economies.

Key Highlights:

Thailand formally requests India’s support for full BRICS membership in 2026.
Currently a BRICS partner country since January 2025 with limited participation.
Thailand seeks to serve as a bridge between BRICS and Southeast Asian groups like ASEAN and BIMSTEC.
Thai foreign minister met with India’s S. Jaishankar to discuss bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
The move advances Thailand’s aim to elevate its international profile and economic diplomacy.
Thailand officially submitted its letter of intent in mid-2024, seeking expedited accession.
Strengthening regional integration amid current geopolitical shifts is a priority.
BRICS expansion includes recent additions like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Iran.

Source: TASS, Live Hindustan, Indian Politics, The Diplomat

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! Leader’s Gambit: Albanese Eyes Game-Changing Quad Dialogue in New Year’s Opening Round