I am departing today on a two day visit to Kazan at  the invitation of H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation,  to attend the 16th BRICS Summit.
India values the close cooperation within BRICS which  has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues  concerning the global developmental agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate  change, economic cooperation, building resilient supply chains, promoting  cultural and people to people connect, among others. The expansion of BRICS  with the addition of new members last year has added to its inclusivity and  agenda for the global good.
Building upon the Annual Summit held in July 2024 in  Moscow, my visit to Kazan will further reinforce the Special and Privileged  Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.
I look forward to meeting other leaders from BRICS as  well.