Bolivian president confirms participation in BRICS summit

The Bolivian President, Luis Arce, is set to attend the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, on August 24-25.

This summit convenes leaders from major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The Bolivian government announced this participation on Friday.

Government spokesperson Gabriela Alcón expressed that Arce’s participation recognizes the growing importance of a multipolar world and the economic and population influence of the BRICS nations.

Bolivia has garnered international attention for its strategic partnerships and its focus on the industrialization of natural resources, including lithium.

The summit’s main theme is “Partnership for Accelerated Mutual Growth; Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism.”

Arce plans to discuss Bolivia’s economic model in Johannesburg, emphasizing its progression towards industrialization, import substitution, and an open, transparent, inclusive, and non-discriminatory multilateral trade system.

Bolivia has expressed keen interest in joining the BRICS group, which reportedly accounts for 30% of global GDP and 40% of the world’s population.

On June 12, Arce officially conveyed Bolivia’s intention to become part of this bloc.

On July 31, the Bolivian Foreign Minister, Rogelio Mayta, reiterated Arce’s commitment to the summit, looking forward to dialogues with the leaders of the BRICS countries.