Türkiye could significantly enhance the BRICS bloc’s objectives, according to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in a recent interview with Hürriyet. Lavrov highlighted Türkiye’s interest in joining BRICS as a promising reflection of the bloc’s appeal, which he says is grounded in respect for the U.N. Charter, openness, pragmatism, and non-alignment against other nations.
Lavrov affirmed that Russia welcomes Türkiye’s intention to strengthen ties with BRICS, aligning with Moscow’s strategy to expand the group with nations that support multilateralism and avoid unilateral sanctions. “Türkiye can make a meaningful contribution to BRICS’s ongoing development,” Lavrov stated.
His remarks follow a recent BRICS summit in Kazan, where members agreed to reinforce the bloc by engaging additional countries. Lavrov believes Türkiye’s potential inclusion could bring valuable perspective and enhance BRICS’ capacity to address global challenges.
Lavrov also discussed recent developments in Gaza and Lebanon, urging parties to avoid escalation that could worsen the violence. “Escalating violence will only lead to uncontrollable consequences. A political resolution based on international law is essential to ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict,” he cautioned.
The Russian foreign minister touched on the normalization process between Türkiye and Syria, affirming Russia’s commitment to bridging differences between Ankara and Damascus. Talks have stalled due to Syria’s demand that Türkiye withdraw its forces, yet both nations are reportedly open to renewed dialogue. Lavrov emphasized Russia’s support for restoring these negotiations soon.
On the Ukraine conflict, Lavrov expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s mediation efforts. However, he noted that peace initiatives are challenging due to perceived resistance from other parties. “Our opponents do not seem interested in peace,” he remarked.
Lavrov also voiced surprise at Türkiye’s ongoing supply of weapons to Ukraine, pointing out that these arms are being used in conflict against Russian forces. “This is surprising, especially given Türkiye’s statements about mediating peace,” he added.
Russia, Lavrov emphasized, remains open to a political resolution in Ukraine, but only if it addresses the root causes of the conflict and not just a temporary ceasefire. He underscored that a lasting peace must involve substantial change rather than superficial agreements.
This multipronged engagement with Türkiye, in Lavrov’s view, underscores the nation’s potential to act as a pivotal player in BRICS and in international efforts toward conflict resolution.
