UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Attends 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan participated in the 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan, Russia. This marks the UAE's first attendance as a full BRICS member, signifying a new chapter in the UAE's global engagements. The summit, which runs until October 24, is centered around critical global issues such as financing, technology, food trade, and expanding BRICS membership.
The summit, chaired by Russia this year, operates under the theme "Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security." Leaders and heads of government from BRICS countries, alongside representatives from invited nations and international organizations, have gathered to discuss pressing global matters. Russian President Vladimir Putin inaugurated the event, and key discussions are set to address global politics, economics, and security.
Earlier today, President Sheikh Mohamed arrived at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Center, the summit’s venue, and joined other leaders for an official group photo. Accompanying him were notable figures, including H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and a delegation of high-level officials.
BRICS Expansion and Global Impact
The UAE’s presence at the BRICS Summit aligns with the bloc’s recent expansion, which now includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. President Putin has highlighted that 34 additional countries, including Türkiye, have expressed interest in joining the BRICS group, showcasing its increasing influence in global affairs.
Prominent global figures in attendance include UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Secretary-General Zhang Ming, and New Development Bank (NDB) President Dilma Rousseff. The summit also welcomed officials from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union.
Key issues on the summit’s agenda include discussions on politics and security, economics and finance, and cultural cooperation. The potential for BRICS expansion is a primary focus, with proposals for a new "partner states" category being explored.
In his speech, President Putin emphasized the creation of a BRICS investment platform aimed at supporting economies in the Global South and East. He also proposed a special consultation mechanism within BRICS to address World Trade Organization matters and the development of a BRICS grain exchange to shield national markets from external economic pressures.
Looking Ahead
The three-day summit will conclude on October 24. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to attend, joining discussions and holding bilateral talks with Putin on the summit’s sidelines. The 16th BRICS Summit is poised to further solidify the bloc's position as a major global player and enhance its ability to address both regional and international challenges.