Venezuela Reacts to BRICS Exclusion with Bolivia and Cuba Accepted
Bolivia and Cuba, along with other countries, granted BRICS associate member status
Amidst the acceptance of Cuba and Bolivia into the BRICS bloc as associate states, Venezuela expressed anger at Brazil for its exclusion. The Venezuelan government accused Brazil of vetoing their entry into the group, leading to tensions between the countries.
Following a summit in Kazan, Russia, the BRICS member countries reached a consensus to invite 13 countries as associate members. Venezuela, under President Nicolás Maduro, aims to join BRICS despite facing diplomatic challenges, particularly with Brazil.
The inclusion of new members is decided by consensus among the full BRICS members. Brazil’s criteria for membership include advocating for United Nations reform, opposing unilateral sanctions, and maintaining friendly relations with all member countries.
Cuba celebrated its entry into BRICS, emphasizing the importance of cooperation among Southern countries. Meanwhile, Bolivia’s President Luis Arce Catacora inquired about the possibility of full membership status in the future.