Uzbekistan becomes BRICS partner, strengthening global cooperation

Uzbekistan will officially become a BRICS partner state starting January 1, 2025, according to an announcement by Yuri Ushakov, Assistant to the Russian President.

Ushakov revealed that ahead of the upcoming summit in Kazan, BRICS received 35 applications from various countries seeking to engage with the organization in different capacities. While some nations expressed interest in full membership, others preferred to participate as observers in selected events.

“One of the key outcomes of the summit was the establishment of a BRICS partner state category and the approval of 13 countries to join under this status,” Ushakov stated. He confirmed that Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan have already accepted invitations to become partner states, while responses from four additional countries are expected soon.

According to Ushakov, BRICS partner states will be invited to attend select meetings at BRICS summits and participate in sessions with foreign ministers. They may also engage in security dialogues, parliamentary forums, and other events.

“Our doors remain open to like-minded nations,” he added, highlighting that more than 20 other countries, including Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Venezuela, and Pakistan, have shown interest in cooperating with BRICS.

Ushakov cautioned against the uncontrolled expansion of BRICS, emphasizing the need for gradual and coordinated growth to maintain the organization's stability and effectiveness.

Founded in 2006, BRICS currently consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, the UAE, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia.