Cuba has officially joined BRICS, but not as a full member, but in the status of an "associative" member. This has become a realization of the long-standing aspiration of the Cuban regime. Cuba participates in the BRICS summits and other events associated with the structures of the association, possibly not having full membership in the organization. At the same time, Havana will continue to cooperate with the current members of BRICS within the established relationships. The influence of this event on the geopolitical landscape of the region and international relations may emerge in the long-term perspective. "Cuba has officially joined BRICS as an associative member. This confirms the success of our efforts to strengthen a multipolar world and the aspiration to establish a new global economic and financial architecture," representatives of the Cuban regime stated. "Cooperation with BRICS allows Cuba to actively participate in global processes and support national interests on the international stage," they added. The status of an associative member implies that Cuba will participate in the activities of the organization but will not receive full voting rights at the summits and in the process of making key decisions.
