Foreign Ministry: Uzbekistan is pursuing economic interests through its partnership with BRICS.

"BRICS is a prestigious and dynamic association of multilateral cooperation and partnership. We are confident that such a model of interaction can serve as a solid foundation for shaping a new architecture of a more equitable world order while maintaining the central role of the UN," said Burkhanov.

He noted that most BRICS countries are traditional partners of Uzbekistan. "Our primary focus is on economic interests. BRICS represents a vast market with immense potential. Comprehensive expansion of ties with member countries will positively contribute to the well-being of our people," added the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As of January 1, 2025, the first partners in BRICS include Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The introduction of the "partner countries" category is part of a new formula for the further development of BRICS, which was agreed upon during the summit in Kazan in October.

The BRICS group was established in 2006. Initially, it included Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and in 2011, South Africa joined them. Starting January 1, 2024, Egypt, Iran, the UAE, and Ethiopia became full-fledged members of the organization. Later, on January 6, 2025, Indonesia joined BRICS as a full member.