During her visit to Delhi, Argentina’s Foreign Minister, Diana Mondino, confirmed that Argentina is not interested in joining BRICS despite having been invited. She emphasized Argentina’s preference for Mercosur and the desire to avoid political entanglements with BRICS nations. Under President Javier Milei, Argentina formally withdrew its interest in BRICS and has focused on strengthening ties with India.
During her visit to Delhi, Argentina’s Foreign Minister, Diana Mondino, articulated that Argentina is not pursuing membership in the BRICS coalition. While Argentina was extended an invitation to join the BRICS during the summit in South Africa in August 2023—set to take effect on January 1, 2024—Mondino emphasized her country’s lack of interest, asserting, “We are far more interested in Mercosur rather than becoming one of the members of BRICS.” Mercosur, the Southern Common Market, promotes the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among its member states. Mondino elaborated on Argentina’s strong economic ties with individual BRICS countries but remarked, “politically we don’t want to be hitched to anyone” and expressed reluctance to align with any specific political agenda or burden. Following President Javier Milei’s election in late 2023, Argentina reaffirmed its decision not to join BRICS, formally notifying the founding members—India, China, South Africa, Russia, and Brazil—of this withdrawal. Mondino acknowledged the appeal of BRICS for capital markets and growth potential, stating, “BRICS is a very good idea for capital markets…but…we don’t want to be burdened with whatever politics anybody else has.” Argentina’s Foreign Minister also met with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, during her visit, engaging in discussions centered on various areas including trade, nuclear energy, agriculture, and defense. Mondino underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral relations, highlighting Argentina’s capacity to contribute to India’s food and energy security.
Argentina’s Foreign Minister’s statement reflects a significant decision as BRICS continues to evolve with increasing global influence, seen as a competitor to traditional alliances such as the G7. The group’s recent expansion aims to include new members but Argentina, citing political neutrality, prefers to prioritize its commitments within Mercosur, a regional economic union that focuses on integration among South American countries. This context reveals Argentina’s strategic approach to international relations, valuing regional partnerships over larger, potentially politically charged alliances.
In conclusion, Argentina’s Foreign Minister, Diana Mondino, has firmly declared the country’s intention to avoid BRICS membership, highlighting a preference for Mercosur and emphasizing non-allegiance to external political agendas. This decision underscores a strategic pivot aimed at enhancing regional economic cooperation while maintaining independent foreign relations.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
