Algeria's Pursuit of BRICS Membership: A Strategic Move in Global Diplomacy

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, the African nation of Algeria has been making strategic moves to strengthen its global position. One such move is its bid to join the BRICS.

In recent months, Algeria has been making headlines with its bid to join the BRICS, an economic bloc that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The country's President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, has been actively pursuing this goal, with visits to both Russia and China, two of the bloc's most influential members. However, the journey has been fraught with challenges and controversies, including a disputed claim of rejection.

A Strategic Move

Algeria's interest in joining BRICS is strategic. The bloc represents about 25% of the world's GDP and more than 42% of the world's population. For Algeria, joining would strengthen its international position and cement its relations with member countries, especially Russia and China. It would also provide a platform for Algeria to engage in technological transfers with certain member countries, such as India, and potentially increase its borrowing capacity through the New Development Bank, an alternative financing system to existing institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

The Moscow and Beijing Visits

In June 2023, President Tebboune visited Russia, a longtime military partner and supplier to Algeria. This visit was followed by a state visit to China in July, where he sought to deepen cooperation beyond the economy and secure support for Algeria's BRICS membership bid. These visits underscored Algeria's commitment to strengthening its global profile and reducing its dependence on gas.

The Controversy

However, a report from Barlaman Today claimed that Algeria's request to join BRICS was rejected, citing the country's homogenous and underperforming economy, high unemployment, and lack of industrialization as reasons for the exclusion. The report also claimed that Algeria's GDP per capita, which is heavily reliant on petroleum earnings, was too low for BRICS qualification. However, it's important to note that this information has been disputed due to the lack of an official statement confirming it.

Is Algeria Ready?

Despite the controversy, many believe that Algeria's bid is a strong one. The country's geographic position, fast-growing population, and warm relations with all BRICS countries make it a compelling candidate. Moreover, Algeria's GDP is expected to climb to $206 billion in 2023, according to the International Monetary Fund, which could strengthen its case for membership.

Conclusion

As the world watches, Algeria's journey towards BRICS membership is a testament to its ambition to play a larger role in the global economy. Regardless of the outcome, this journey underscores the country's determination to diversify its economy and strengthen its international relations. However, it's clear that the road to BRICS is not without its challenges and controversies, and only time will tell if Algeria's bid will be successful.