At the “BRICS Plus” format summit, President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered an address, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and dialogue in a rapidly fragmenting world. The event, hosted in Kazan, provided a platform for discussions on global development, with a focus on fostering inclusive and equitable international relations.
President Mirziyoyev opened his speech by extending gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his warm hospitality and excellent organization of the event. He acknowledged the historical and cultural importance of Kazan, where Eastern and Western cultures harmoniously coexist.
Urgency of Global Cooperation
Mirziyoyev highlighted the growing divisions across the globe, marked by rising conflicts, human suffering, and deepening inequality. He expressed concern about the fragmentation of the global economy, trade protectionism, and the widening technological gap, all of which pose significant challenges to international cooperation.
“In these conditions, BRICS, acting on the basis of such principles as equality, non-alignment, consideration of mutual interests, and respect for each nation’s sovereignty and right to pursue its own developmental path, emerges as a reputable and dynamic formation for multifaceted cooperation and partnership,” the president remarked.
He emphasized the role of BRICS in shaping a more equitable world order, while upholding the central role of the United Nations.
Additionally, President Mirziyoyev echoed calls for reforming global governance institutions and stressed the importance of fostering a committed dialogue between the Global South and the Global North. He called for constructive conversations free from geopolitical rivalries and national interests, advocating for a global compromise to address shared challenges.
Uzbekistan’s Engagement with BRICS
Reflecting on Uzbekistan’s active participation in various BRICS events, including the Youth Summit, Sports Games, and high-level security meetings, Mirziyoyev affirmed the country’s commitment to deepening its partnerships with BRICS nations. He emphasized that Uzbekistan seeks to leverage new opportunities within the BRICS framework, particularly in areas such as innovation, digital economy, green development, and energy.
“Uzbekistan intends to establish close collaboration with the BRICS New Development Bank to implement priority investment and social projects,” the president voiced.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation in transport connectivity, logistics supply chains, food and energy security, and addressing climate change.
“We intend to participate in joint projects of the BRICS Research Group on Artificial Intelligence to prevent possible risks and develop common management standards in this area,” head of the trade added.
Focus on Security and Humanitarian Concerns
Addressing the issue of global security, Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of countering terrorism, radicalization, and extremist ideologies, particularly among youth. He also voiced deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East, calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian relief for the victims in Gaza and Lebanon.
“No political objectives can justify innocent civilian victims, especially children,” Mirziyoyev continued. “We believe that the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian problem is a peaceful settlement of the conflict based on the “two-state solution” principle.
The president also emphasized Uzbekistan’s stance on Afghanistan, urging the international community to assist the Afghan people in addressing socio-economic development and peace-building, rather than isolating the country.
Concluding his address, President Mirziyoyev reiterated Uzbekistan’s readiness to engage in close cooperation with BRICS countries to achieve common goals of sustainable development.
