“The heads of local governments, mayors of large and small cities of States that are close to the philosophy and practical policy of the BRICS partnership will discuss a wide range of professional issues, share experiences, and establish new contacts,” Putin said in his address to participants.

He noted that the stable and progressive development of urban agglomerations and municipalities depends on the contacts established at this meeting in Kazan, where some 200 heads of Russian and foreign municipalities participated.

Putin stressed that a constituent meeting of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of BRICS+ Countries and the creation of a new structure that works by the principles of mutual respect, equality, and creative cooperation will be held during the forum.

jg/iff/rgh/hoo