KAZAN: The 16th BRICS Summit commenced at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Center, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin alongside leaders of other member states. The summit aims to deepen cooperation across political, security, economic, and humanitarian fields, while also considering the expansion of the group's membership and influence. According to National Iraqi News Agency, President Putin emphasized the significance of strengthening BRICS ties, highlighting the interest shown by over 30 countries in joining or cooperating with the group. He underscored the importance of maintaining the group's effectiveness and balance, noting its dynamic development and growing international reputation. Putin reiterated BRICS's potential in creating a fair, multipolar world and mentioned the efforts made by Moscow to implement the outcomes of the previous summit held in Johannesburg to boost financial cooperation among the member states. The summit will address pressing global issues and facilitate an exchange of views on international cooperation among BRICS countries, including the resolution of regional conflicts. Leaders will also discuss the potential increase in BRICS membership, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia having recently joined the group. The interest from over 30 other countries in BRICS membership or cooperation highlights the group's growing global appeal. President Putin is scheduled to engage in bilateral meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Iranian President Masoud Peskov on the sidelines of the summit. The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Kazan Declaration, a comprehensive document that will encapsulate the achievements of the forum and the Russian presidency.