Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (August 29) said that Bangladesh didn't try to become BRICS member.

She said Bangladesh focused fully on involving with the New Development Bank, a multilateral development bank established by the BRICS states.

The premier said while briefing media about her recently concluded visit to Johannesburg in South Africa from August 22-26 to attend the "BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue" of the 15th BRICS Summit unequivocally at a press conference in capital.

"We didn't have any thinking that we would get membership of BRICS by joining its summit for the first time. We didn't make any such attempt, we didn't even tell anyone (for getting BRICS membership)," she said.

Mentioning that she met all the heads of state and heads of government, but didn't tell anyone about joining BRICS now, Sheikh Hasina said, "I always have good relations with the heads of government of these five countries since BRICS was established."

"From our side, we have been interested in New Development Bank since we heard about it," she said, adding, "Since the beginning, I have been keen to get involved with the bank."

The Prime Minister said she knew that questions would arise in this regard particularly from the opposition parties that Bangladesh has failed to obtain the membership despite making attempts.

"It is not right that when Bangladesh wants something, it does not get it. We've at least enhanced our dignity in the international stage. So, we've this scope," she said, replying to a question over the BRICS membership.

Sheikh Hasina said the BRICS President told her that they would add more countries as its members in phases. When the membership would be given next time, Bangladesh can apply for it if it wants to be its member, she added.

"So, we'll think of it at that time. We told the President when we get the scope, we'll become a member," she said.

BDST: 2142 HRS, AUGUST 29, 2023
MSK