✉️ Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s video address to the organisers and participants in the BRICS Interregional Business Forum (Moscow, October 30, 2026) ✍️ I am pleased to greet the organisers and participants of the BRICS Interregional Business Forum, an important element of the architecture of cooperation within the group. Despite the turbulent geopolitical situation, countries of the Global Majority are demonstrating a genuine interest in expanding multifaceted cooperation with one another and, in particular, with the Russian Federation. It is symbolic that you have gathered in St Petersburg, our country’s northern and cultural capital and a dynamically developing business centre of global significance. Today, #BRICS is one of the driving forces behind global economic growth. The association accounts for 40 percent of global GDP in terms of purchasing power parity and 23 percent of world trade. Trade between BRICS states has already reached $1.2 trillion. We believe it is important not to rest on our laurels but to continue our joint efforts to fully unlock the considerable potential for mutually beneficial cooperation. This is the aim of Russia’s initiatives, including the development of international payment mechanisms resilient to external shocks and the establishment of a New Investment Platform to attract capital to key sectors of the economies of BRICS countries and the nations of the Global South and East in general. Your meeting will also make a significant contribution to our common efforts to expand practical cooperation. Participants will have an opportunity to exchange experience on a wide range of issues essential to the prosperity of our regions and cities, as well as to review progress in implementing joint business projects. I am confident that the forum will take place in a traditionally constructive atmosphere, helping to establish new business contacts, strengthen existing ties and promote friendship, mutual understanding and partnership between our countries and peoples. An extensive cultural programme will also give participants an opportunity to learn more about the rich historical and cultural heritage of St Petersburg, which can be rightfully called a unique open-air museum. I wish you fruitful discussions.