Iraq shows interest in BRICS, but too early to discuss membership: Russian Ambassador

Iraq has expressed interest in the BRICS association, but it is too early to discuss the country officially joining, according to Russian Ambassador to Iraq Elbrus Kutrashev.

In an interview with Izvestia, Kutrashev outlined the growing relationship between Iraq and Russia while noting potential challenges from the United States regarding Iraq’s steps toward BRICS.

Iraq’s growing interest in BRICS

Ambassador Kutrashev revealed that Iraq is increasingly looking toward BRICS, the economic bloc comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, where Russia plays a key role. According to Kutrashev, BRICS is becoming an attractive association for Iraq, especially as bilateral relations between Iraq and Russia expand.

“Russia is now in fashion among Iraqis. Many are keen to visit Russia for tourism or business, and our exchange of delegations has become more frequent. Iraq recognizes Russia’s significant role in BRICS, and this interest is growing,” said Kutrashev, when asked if Iraq is preparing to join the association.

US likely to oppose Iraq’s BRICS move

Despite the growing interest, Kutrashev noted that Iraq’s official steps toward BRICS could provoke opposition from the United States. According to the ambassador, the U.S. will likely attempt to block Iraq from joining BRICS if it perceives the country moving closer to the association.

“When the U.S. learns that Iraq has begun practical steps to join BRICS, they will try to prevent this. Iraq cannot afford a direct confrontation with the United States, so it’s too early to talk about this now, but we will get there in time,” Kutrashev added.