Cuba's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elio Rodriguez Perdomo, has expressed strong confidence in Ethiopia's ability to make significant contributions to the BRICS group. In an interview with Ethiopian media, Perdomo highlighted Ethiopia's importance as both a regional and international player, anticipating positive contributions from the newly-joined nation.
"Ethiopia will do an additional contribution to the different works being carried out in the BRICS," he said. "Ethiopia is an important actor, not only regionally but also internationally, and I am sure that it will have great contributions within this group."
According to the diplomat, Cuba, a long-time friend of Ethiopia, sees the country's membership in the BRICS as a positive development, emphasizing shared interests and challenges among BRICS nations, particularly those within the Global South.
Perdomo believes Ethiopia's presence will strengthen the group's ability to address these concerns.
"For us, it's excellent to have a new friend within this group, which is Ethiopia," he said, noting the significance of a future BRICS membership for Cuba.
During last year's BRICS summit in South Africa, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez held a successful meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and support Ethiopia's endeavors within the BRICS.
It is worth noting that Ethiopia's application to join the BRICS, along with Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, was accepted during the South Africa summit, while Cuba's application could be considered in future BRICS expansions.