Expert on BRICS attractiveness: it’s alternative to G7, G20

BRICS is interesting from the point of view of diplomatic consolidation on an anti-American basis – as stated by political expert Yuri Shevtsov in his talk with Alfa Radio

US-BRICS confrontation

“Trump's attack on BRICS is already underway. His statements are serious, especially since Trump has shown that he is striving to implement what he is talking about," the expert noted. “After his words about BRICS, especially its currency, the organisation responded by saying that it would not introduce this currency. There were actually no plans to introduce it, but this fact has been voiced now. Another currency is possible, but it is not a matter of the near future.” 

Increase in American pressure

"I think the results of the US-Russia negotiations on the current issues will determine whether the American pressure will enhance,” Mr. Shevtsov said. “We mainly pay attention to the Ukrainian aspect of these talks, but there are many others. The negotiation process will not last very long: I think it will end in less than six months, and it will then become clear what relations Russia and the United States will have – at least, during Trump's presidency. Everything related to BRICS, SCO and other organisations (which Russia is a member of) will depend on that.” 

BRICS becoming increasingly attractive

“BRICS is becoming increasingly attractive, and the number of countries declaring their willingness to join it is growing. Their goals include economic growth and development. After all, this is an economic association that focuses on finance," Mr. Shevtsov emphasised. “Ideally, they need to create an alternative to the Dollar, relying on BRICS – but this is somewhere in the long term. Countries aspiring to join BRICS are trying to get involved into the financial instruments that somewhat reduce the degree of dependence on the Dollar. For example, clearing settlements between the BRICS members are gradually reducing this dependence. In addition, major events are held within BRICS, and they gather a lot of participants. The last BRICS summit in Kazan brought together more than 30 countries, and this already resembles an alternative not only to G7 or G20 (where the United States is in the lead), but also to the UN. Therefore, the BRICS diplomatic platform turned out to be interesting from the point of view of diplomatic consolidation on an anti-American basis. It will be clear later what all this can lead to.”