Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev spoke at the "BRICS Plus" summit in Kazan.

"Unfortunately, the world is increasingly moving toward division. The number of wars and conflicts is rising, bringing immense suffering, deep pain, and irreparable losses to people. The fragmentation of the global economy and trade exacerbates inequality, deepens the technological gap, and leads to protectionism. New barriers are emerging between countries," the head of Uzbekistan noted at the beginning of his speech.

In this context, he emphasized that BRICS, based on the principles of equality, non-alignment, mutual consideration of interests, respect for sovereignty, and the right to independent development, serves as an authoritative and dynamic platform for multilateral cooperation and partnership.

"We are convinced that such a model of interaction can become a solid foundation for forming a new architecture of a more just world order while maintaining the central role of the UN," the president stated.

"I support calls for achieving a global compromise through constructive dialogue, free from geopolitical rivalry, national selfishness, and ideological bias," Shavkat Mirziyoyev added.

He stressed that the time has come to reform global governance institutions and expand responsible dialogue in "South-South" and "North-South" formats.

The President of Uzbekistan reminded that under Russia’s presidency in BRICS, Uzbekistan participated in the Youth Summit, BRICS Sports Games, legal and parliamentary forums, a high-level security meeting, and other events.

"We intend to actively develop partnerships with BRICS countries, utilizing new opportunities that arise within this association," the head of state noted.

He also added that Uzbekistan supports BRICS countries’ efforts to address global inequality issues and promote inclusive economic recovery.

"Particular attention should be paid to supporting national programs of developing countries aimed at overcoming social and environmental challenges, reducing poverty, bridging the technological gap, and modernizing infrastructure," Mirziyoyev emphasized.

"Multilateral financial institutions can play an important role in this process. Uzbekistan is ready to cooperate with the New Development Bank of BRICS to implement priority investment and social projects," the president declared.

He noted that the country is interested in expanding cooperation in areas such as innovation, digital economy, green development, energy, and barrier-free e-commerce.

"We plan to participate in joint projects of the BRICS Research Group on artificial intelligence to mitigate potential risks and develop unified governance standards in this area," the head of Uzbekistan added.

The president also expressed readiness to join the BRICS Competence Center being established at UNIDO, as well as the Investment Platform proposed at this summit.

"Together with BRICS partners, we intend to work on enhancing transport connectivity, creating new transcontinental corridors, forming reliable logistics chains, and developing cabotage transportation. We will also focus on issues of food and energy security, combating climate change, and health protection," he stated.

The president supported strengthening business contacts within BRICS and proposed considering the possibility of connecting all interested countries to the Business Council.

In conclusion, the head of state highlighted a priority direction for partnership in the BRICS space — countering the threats of international terrorism.

"Particular attention should be paid to preventing radicalization and the spread of extremist ideology, especially among youth," Mirziyoyev stressed.

He also expressed concern over the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, noting that it is gradually becoming a potential hotspot for a global crisis involving neighboring states and major world powers.

"We are pained to witness the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and Lebanon. No political goals can justify the casualties among the civilian population, especially children. Today, the primary tasks are a ceasefire and providing emergency assistance to those affected," the president stated.

In conclusion, Mirziyoyev emphasized that Uzbekistan sees the only possible resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as a peaceful settlement based on the principle of "two states for two peoples."

Speaking about global security, the head of Uzbekistan also underscored the necessity of assisting Afghanistan. "Our common task is not to isolate but to support the Afghan people and the current authorities in addressing pressing social and economic issues," the president concluded.