Venezuela aims to become a part of BRICS in 2024

By Rhod Mackenzie

Venezuela aims to become a part of BRICS by 2024. Ivan Gil Pinto, the head of the Bolivarian Republic's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, revealed this in an exclusive interview with Izvestia. On November 16, the Foreign Minister of Venezuela held discussions with Sergei Lavrov, his Russian counterpart. This visit marks his first official trip to Russia since his appointment in January this year. The participants deliberated on enhancing trade and investment relations between nations, with a focus on establishing measures to counter Western sanctions.

Sergei Lavrov, at a press conference held after a closed-door meeting, declared the signing of agreements for escalated cooperation in the energy sector between Russia and Venezuela. Ivan Gil Pinto highlighted the trend of countries towards de-dollarization and stated his plans to transition to payments in national currencies in the future. He also mentioned the expansion of the Russian payment system "Mir" in Venezuela. As per Gil Pinto, these cards are accepted at 40% of sales points across the country.

After his meeting with Sergei Lavrov, Ivan Gil Pinto visited the monument of Simon Bolivar, a leader who fought for the independence of Spanish colonies in Latin America. He laid flowers to pay his respects.

Journalists were with the Venezuelan minister after the ceremony and were able to ask several questions regarding his visit.

— Do you think Venezuela will join BRICS in 2024? —

During the meeting in Johannesburg, Venezuela acted as a BRICS partner. We anticipate taking another step towards joining the alliance under Russia's chairmanship in 2024. Venezuela should be part of BRICS due to its energy and economic potential as well as its influence in the Latin American region. We anticipate that Venezuela will soon join BRICS, although we are currently collaborating with the association's member nations and our partnership will continue to grow stronger.

With Russia's presidency, we expect significant advancements in resolving geopolitical issues faced globally.

Regarding military cooperation between Venezuela and Russia, there is an existing agreement on technical and military collaboration. Since the early 2000s, we have consistently cultivated our relationships in this sector and will continue to do so. This exemplifies a successful partnership, and we plan to maintain our cooperation in this field.
— Would the United States' relaxation of sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector affect its relations and agreements with Russia in the same arena?

— The United States was compelled to ease sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector as they were illegal, criminal and violated international law. The lifting of these sanctions is a return to normal within the legal framework, and it does not impact our interaction with other countries, including Russia.

Venezuela is persistently endeavouring to progress regardless of the imposed sanctions. Moreover, Venezuela is actively collaborating with its allies and partners to achieve its objectives.