Argentina has officially communicated to Russia its decision not to pursue membership in BRICS and to remain outside the group.
During a press conference Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov confirmed Argentina’s stance, stating, “As for Argentina, indeed, its new government has formally notified us and other BRICS members that it will not use the invitation given by the leaders in Johannesburg.”
Ryabkov emphasized that Argentina’s decision means it will continue to stay outside the BRICS framework. However, he reassured that BRICS does not consider this development as a significant issue. He clarified that the invitation extended to Argentina remains valid and has not been retracted.
“Let us wait and see what happens, in particular, how BRICS develops and what conclusions our Argentine colleagues [will] draw,” Ryabkov remarked.
The decision by Argentina to decline BRICS membership was confirmed by Argentine President Javier Milei in late December 2023. Milei conveyed this refusal through letters addressed to the heads of state of the BRICS group.
“In letters to the group heads of state, Argentine President Javier Milei confirmed the refusal to join BRICS,” Ryabkov noted.
Milei’s letter to Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva stated, “At this stage, Argentina’s entry into BRICS as a full member on January 1, 2024, does not look expedient.”
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