Libya explores BRICS membership, says foreign minister

Libya’s acting foreign minister has expressed interest in the nation joining the BRICS economic bloc, highlighting the government’s desire to strengthen ties with the group’s member states.

Speaking to Russia’s TASS news agency on Tuesday, Taher Al-Baour said the possibility of Libya’s membership was being actively discussed within government circles. The comments came during the Russian-African Partnership Forum, currently taking place in Sochi.

“We are interested in joining, and this would guarantee value and benefits for Libya,” Al-Baour said, while emphasising that such a move would require “deep study and evaluation of the benefits.”

The minister noted that Libya had not received an invitation to the recent BRICS summit, despite expressing interest in attending as an observer.

Earlier, Abdul Hadi Al-Huwaij, foreign minister in the parallel government, had revealed that his administration was also exploring BRICS membership. He indicated that steps were being taken to join initially as an observer, with various studies being prepared, though such decisions would require broader political consultation.

The discussions come as Russia hosts the Russian-African Partnership Forum in Sochi, aimed at strengthening Moscow’s diplomatic and economic ties with African nations.

BRICS currently comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with several new members set to join in 2024. The bloc represents a significant portion of global economic output and positions itself as an alternative to Western-dominated international institutions.