Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin spoke at a meeting with the leadership of the Group of Strategic Vision “Russia – Islamic World” (the Group) and the ambassadors of the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Moscow.
“In line with the priorities of Russia’s foreign policy, as outlined by President Vladimir Putin, cooperation with Muslim countries has reached the level of strategic partnership,” said Khusnullin. He noted that the meeting with the ambassadors of OIC member states at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, held in the lead-up to the annual meeting of the Group and the International Economic Forum KazanForum (which has federal status), has already become a good tradition.
“Today, this cooperation, based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to the principles of a multipolar world, covers a wide range of areas and shows impressive dynamics of development,” Khusnullin continued.
Over the past four years, trade turnover between Russia and OIC countries has increased by 44%, reaching $163 billion. A solid foundation is actively being formed for further progress: key transport corridors, North-South and West-East, are continuing to develop.
“The potential of these corridors could radically change global logistics and redistribute global transport flows,” emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister. In his opinion, this positive trend is largely the result of the Group’s activities, which, for more than a decade and a half, has been purposefully working to strengthen mutual understanding and establish direct contacts between Russia and the Islamic world.
Particular attention should be given to the annual meeting of the Group and the KazanForum International Economic Forum. In 2025, the forum will be held during the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland, immediately following the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory.
“We must remember the cost of peace and harmony between peoples and make every effort to strengthen brotherly ties,” said Khusnullin. He also expressed his firm belief that the current activities and further expansion of the Group's work will be key factors in enhancing multifaceted cooperation.
“Together, we can strengthen a solid bridge of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation, based on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to peace and prosperity,” Khusnullin concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the Rais RT
Based on materials from TASS