The Russian Foreign Ministry stated on Saturday that BRICS has never been, nor is it planning to become, a military union, despite any allegations to the contrary.

In September, an article published in The Times claimed that the expansion of BRICS "should worry NATO." 

"BRICS is not, has never been and is not going to become a military union. BRICS is not even an international organization or an integration structure, but a multinational union of equal members," the ministry said, commenting on the article.

The ministry added that BRICS is a comprehensive strategic partnership based on three key pillars: politics and security, economics and finance, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

"Relations between the BRICS partners are based on equality, mutual respect, openness, pragmatism, solidarity and, which is the most important of all, not opposing anyone," the statement read. 

The ministry noted that one of BRICS' primary objectives is to establish a fair and multilateral global economic system, highlighting the bloc's consistent support for the peaceful resolution of international disputes based on international law and respect for state sovereignty.

The expansion of BRICS, it added, reflects shifts in the global economy and bolsters the influence of developing countries in international affairs.

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BRICS, an intergovernmental association founded in 2006, saw Russia assume the chairmanship on January 1, 2024.

This year marked the accession of new members, expanding the group beyond its original members—Russia, Brazil, India, China, and South Africa—to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

Russia's presidency aims to enhance multilateralism for equitable global development and security.

As part of its leadership, Russia is hosting over 200 political, economic, and social events throughout the year.

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