Concerns have arisen over Thailand’s aspiration to join BRICS, the coalition comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Masafumi Ishii, a renowned international relations expert and special adjunct professor with the Faculty of Law at Gakushuin University—and former Ambassador of Japan to Indonesia—expressed caution about Thailand’s potential inclusion in BRICS, suggesting it could become a divisive issue for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Ishii’s concerns are quite pointed. He notes that other Southeast Asian nations like Cambodia and Laos might follow Thailand’s lead, potentially creating a split within ASEAN. “Right now, two members—Thailand and Malaysia—have expressed interest in joining BRICS to boost their economies,” he explains. “Should Cambodia and Laos join as well, having four out of ten ASEAN members in BRICS could be significant.” He adds that ASEAN, traditionally non-interfering in the domestic and foreign policies of its members, might find it hard to maintain its stance.
Highlighting the potential repercussions, Ishii says, “ASEAN’s unity is vital for its continued relevance and effectiveness. Thailand should thoroughly discuss this matter with its ASEAN counterparts before proceeding further. Otherwise, this move might prompt a breakup of the bloc, a scenario that Japan is particularly concerned about.” Treading carefully, Ishii emphasizes that Japan will respect the decisions of individual ASEAN countries while trying to promote unity.
“We’re observing closely to see if Thailand’s move will be the start of any significant changes within ASEAN,” he says. “If other countries follow suit without internal discussions within ASEAN, it will undoubtedly amplify our concerns.”
The cautionary narrative from Ishii comes against the backdrop of a symposium in Tokyo, where journalists from the Southeast Asia region met with Japanese officials to discuss ASEAN-Japan relations. Ryo Nakamura, Japan’s Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister and director-general of the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department, struck a more optimistic note regarding Thailand’s decision to join BRICS.
“The Japanese government harbors no doubts about Thailand’s intentions,” says Nakamura. “Every country must ponder its collaboration needs and potential alliances. Our close relations with BRICS members like India and Brazil underscore that each country has its own set of interests and views.”
Nakamura underscores the trust Japan maintains with Thailand and ASEAN as a whole, asserting, “Our friendship, trust, and cooperation run deep enough to weather any changes. ASEAN’s unique mix of political systems, cultures, and histories has made it a successful regional framework.”
He called for ASEAN to remain united, stating, “You have shown incredible resilience and cooperation over the past 50-60 years despite diverse political systems and historical backgrounds. ASEAN unity is crucial to face external challenges.”
Thailand’s push to join BRICS stems from a strategic initiative by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The rationale? To heighten Thailand’s role in international policy-making and position it as a leader among developing nations. Recently, the Thai cabinet green-lighted a draft letter of intent to join BRICS, underscoring Thailand’s alignment with BRICS principles such as multilateralism and amplified representation for developing countries in the global arena.
Joining BRICS, according to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, promises to elevate Thailand’s international stature and fortify its prospects as an economic policy powerhouse. Ultimately, this strategic move aims to bolster Thailand’s footprint on the global stage, enhancing its influence and contributing to a more balanced international system.
As we watch these geopolitical dynamics unfold, it’s clear that Thailand’s potential BRICS membership could be a watershed moment not just for ASEAN, but for the broader international community. Whether this will spur greater unity or division within ASEAN remains a question only time will answer.
Thailand joining BRICS is a disaster waiting to happen! It will completely undermine ASEAN unity!
Relax, it’s not that simple. Thailand has the right to pursue its own economic interests.
But what about the collective strength of ASEAN? Aren’t common goals more important?
Considering the global economy now, individual countries need to look out for themselves. Unity is great, but survival is key.
Ishii’s concerns are exaggerated. Thailand’s move to BRICS isn’t going to split ASEAN. These countries have dealt with similar issues in the past.
You underestimate the potential for conflict. Once trust is broken, unity falls apart quickly.
I think it’s a brilliant move. BRICS is a growing economic powerhouse, and Thailand will benefit immensely from it.
But what about ASEAN’s unity? BRICS membership could be divisive, as Ishii pointed out.
ASEAN unity is important, but BRICS could also offer new economic opportunities. It’s a balancing act.
Exactly, it’s about finding the right balance. ASEAN can adapt, it’s not the end of the world.
I support Thailand’s decision. Every nation should have the freedom to pursue alliances that benefit its people.
Japan has its own agenda here. They fear losing influence in the region if BRICS grows stronger.
Exactly. Japan is playing politics here. They’re worried about losing their leverage.
Or maybe Japan genuinely cares about ASEAN unity and stability. Not everything is a conspiracy.
Probably a mix of both. Nations act out of self-interest but sometimes align with global stability.
Cambodia and Laos might jump on the BRICS bandwagon too. This could lead to a fragmented ASEAN, which would be disastrous.
If Thailand benefits from BRICS, other ASEAN nations might also want to join. It could lead to economic growth for all.
Or it could cause internal divisions and weaken ASEAN’s bargaining power collectively.
True, but it might also push ASEAN to innovate and find new ways to cooperate despite these changes.
BRICS has its own set of problems too. Thailand should be cautious about diving in head-first.
Good point. BRICS has internal conflicts and challenges that Thailand hasn’t fully considered.
Exactly. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Thailand needs a well-thought-out strategy.
People need to chill. ASEAN can adapt. It’s been resilient for decades.
If other nations follow Thailand’s lead, maybe it’ll push ASEAN to be more proactive and unified in new ways.
Isn’t the whole point of ASEAN to navigate global alliances collectively? Going solo undermines that.
BRICS might offer better opportunities. Why hold Thailand back for the sake of ASEAN?
ASEAN should have a serious discussion internally to weigh the pros and cons before anyone joins BRICS.
Nakamura seems more optimistic about the whole thing. Maybe there’s a middle ground.
Optimism is good, but it shouldn’t blind us to the potential risks.
Agreed, but overemphasis on risks can also paralyze progress. Balance is needed.
Interesting how Japan is framing this as both a concern and a matter of respect for Thailand’s decision.
As long as there are open discussions, I’ve faith ASEAN can navigate these waters.