Kazan to Host International Municipal BRICS+ Forum with Delegates from 21 Nations
The bustling city of Kazan is poised to become a beacon of international cooperation as it prepares to host the prestigious International Municipal BRICS+ Forum. The event, scheduled for June 21 at Kazan City Hall, is expected to draw the attention and participation of around 200 distinguished mayors, deputy mayors, heads of municipal associations, and local government representatives from across 21 countries.
Among the nations participating, the largest delegations are anticipated from leading countries such as China, Iran, India, Brazil, and South Africa. Additionally, the forum will also welcome representatives from South America, including Chile and Argentina, as well as post-Soviet states like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Belarus, and Azerbaijan.
The forum is set to provide a dynamic platform for influential municipal associations and organizations from around the globe. Notable attendees include Ary Jose Vanazzi, President of the Brazilian Association of Municipalities; Bheke Stofile, President of the South African Local Government Association; Ato Andualem Tenaw Habti, Director General of the Ethiopian Cities Association; Sergio Arredondo Olvera, Secretary General of the Latin American Federation of Cities, Municipalities, and Associations of Local Authorities; and Hamidreza Galimzadeh, Secretary General of Asian Mayors Forum, representing Iran, among others.
The core agenda of the forum will revolve around the formation of a new pivotal international organization—a venture designed to unite cities and municipalities across the expansive BRICS+ framework. A crucial task ahead for attendees will be to appoint a leader for this newly envisaged Association of Cities and Municipalities of the BRICS+ countries, deciding on the location for its headquarters, and crafting a comprehensive work plan. The discussions will also extend to various collaborative projects aimed at fostering stronger ties between participating nations.
In expressing his vision for the Association, Kazan Mayor Ilsur Metshin highlighted the principles of equality, mutually beneficial partnership, and respect for the traditions and culture of all members. He emphasized that the organization would steer clear of political agendas, focusing solely on being beneficial to one another. Metshin elaborated on the goals of enhancing cooperation across various domains including the economy, culture, education, and ecology. The Association aims to serve as a valuable source of knowledge, encouraging the sharing and implementation of experiences among cities for the greater good of their citizens.
The forum will not only be a ground for discussions but will also see the signing of multiple agreements fostering cooperation and twinning between different cities, as well as between local authority associations. Additionally, the agenda includes various bilateral working meetings, setting the stage for fruitful exchanges and the deepening of collaborative efforts.
As Kazan readies itself to host this landmark forum, the event is a testament to the city’s growing stature on the international stage. It underscores the importance of global cities and municipalities coming together to tackle common challenges and to share in the pursuit of sustainable development and prosperity for their communities.
