Uruguay’s Potential Participation at the BRICS Summit: Key Developments and Statements

Brazilian President Lula has invited Uruguay to the BRICS summit, advocating for global dialogue. He emphasized the importance of multilateralism and free trade, which are fundamental to democracy. While Uruguay’s accession to the NDB is almost approved, President Orsi is cautious about full BRICS membership, highlighting the need to maintain good ties with the United States.

President Lula of Brazil has extended an invitation for Uruguay, alongside Colombia and Mexico, to participate in the upcoming BRICS summit. He emphasized the importance of these nations engaging in global discussions, asserting that it is essential to enhance both multilateralism and free trade within international relations. Lula highlighted that without free trade, there can be no multilateralism and consequently, no democracy.

Lula reiterated the significant influence of BRICS, which encompasses countries representing nearly half of the global population and GDP, notably China and India. During a recent meeting in December, Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi met with Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank (NDB) of BRICS, who stated that Uruguay’s adherence to the NDB was nearing completion, pending the approval of national institutional bodies, including Parliament.

Despite this progress, President Orsi downplayed Uruguay’s potential integration into the NDB, clarifying that the country is accustomed to other historical mechanisms of collaboration, and BRICS represents a novel initiative. He affirmed that while Uruguay is not a member of BRICS, it is essential to explore all opportunities without dismissal. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin asserted that the Uruguayan administration would strive to maintain positive relations with the United States, which has expressed reservations towards the BRICS coalition of countries.

In conclusion, Brazil’s President Lula has invited Uruguay to participate in the upcoming BRICS summit, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and free trade. While Uruguay’s accession to the New Development Bank is progressing, President Orsi remains cautious about full integration into BRICS. The Uruguayan government intends to maintain collaborative relations with the United States, amid concerns regarding the emerging bloc of BRICS members.

Original Source: www.plenglish.com