China Backs Malaysia’s BRICS Bid, Laos Reiterates Interest

China backs Malaysia’s BRICS membership, Laos weighs entry.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim attends a meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, September 2, 2025. (Photo: Parker Song/Pool/AFP)

China has pledged full support for Malaysia’s full membership into BRICS, while Laos has reaffirmed its interest in joining.

The moves underline Southeast Asia’s growing engagement with the bloc, which has expanded its membership in recent years.

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