The Cuban government renewed its push to become a full member of BRICS during the group’s annual summit in New Delhi, India, on Sunday, as the communist regime seeks a larger role in the bloc alongside countries including China, Russia and Iran.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez said Havana wants to contribute to BRICS and “join as full members.” Cuba currently holds partner-country status, which allows it to participate in BRICS activities but does not give it the same status as the bloc’s 11 full members.

Cuba's renewed request comes despite indications that BRICS is not currently considering an expansion of its full membership. Russia's embassy in Havana said earlier this month that adding new full members was not on the bloc's agenda.

Cuba has sought stronger ties with BRICS as the bloc has expanded its economic and diplomatic reach beyond its original members. The group now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.

The Cuban delegation participated in the summit as a partner country. The final New Delhi Declaration recognized the contribution of BRICS partner countries and encouraged greater participation in the bloc's activities, but did not grant Cuba full membership.

Cuba's government has previously sought support from Russia for its bid to move from partner status to full membership. Moscow, however, has indicated that no decision to expand the bloc's full membership is currently under consideration.

The BRICS summit concluded with members emphasizing greater cooperation among emerging economies, expanded use of local currencies, and reforms to international institutions. Cuba's continued effort to obtain full membership reflects Havana's broader attempt to strengthen its relationships with countries outside the U.S.-led Western system.