Cairo: Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk has emphasized the significance of integrating BRICS with neighboring nations through cross-border initiatives, as outlined in a statement from the ministry.According to State Information Service Egypt, Kouchouk highlighted the role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in addressing development financing gaps among member states. His remarks came during a meeting with Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential Commission for Economic Relations with BRICS Countries, on the sidelines of the BRICS meetings 2025 in Brazil.Kouchouk discussed the potential for expanding joint financing ventures in infrastructure and energy sectors, and stressed the importance of collaborating on multilateral development strategies, as detailed in the ministry's statement.He further emphasized the necessity of utilizing sovereign wealth funds and development bank resources to bolster economic and social progress in emerging markets. The newly established BRICS investment platfo rm, he suggested, presents a pivotal chance to synchronize national development strategies with regional cooperation efforts.Additionally, Kouchouk highlighted opportunities for advancing Egyptian-Russian projects through the new investment platform, proposing bilateral investment initiatives within the BRICS framework. He reiterated Egypt's commitment to strengthening economic, financial, trade, and investment relationships with Russia.