Vol. VI / No. 2 | March 2025
Authors:
Rachmasari Nur Al-Husin, Associate researcher at Department of International Relations, Universitas Indonesia.
Summary
Indonesia’s aspiration to join BRICS, an economic bloc consisting of Global South countries, reflects its strategic ambition to expand its economic role. However, competition between China and India shapes the dynamics of the Global South. China’s economic diplomacy through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and India’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy and innovation add complexity to Indonesia’s position. Amid these dynamics, Indonesia faces a strategic decision: whether to align with one of the powers, maintain a balanced relationship with both, or remain neutral. This decision also comes during a national leadership transition, which could influence the direction of Indonesia’s foreign policy, particularly in navigating strategic competition within the Global South.
Keywords: Global South, BRICS, South-South Cooperation, Pragmatism, Economic Interests