The international economic forum “Russia — Islamic World: KazanForum” serves as an important platform for introducing people to the concept of Islamic finance, while also raising Kazan’s visibility on the global stage. This opinion was shared by Abdelilah Belatik, Secretary-General of the General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), in an interview with TASS.
“The event is highly significant and draws attention from international partners. Personally, I visited Kazan and Tatarstan for the first time thanks to an invitation to this forum. On the domestic level, it helps introduce people to Islamic finance — six to eight years ago, these instruments weren’t even discussed, but today, several banks have already successfully implemented such solutions,” Belatik said.
The external impact is also clear, he added. “Ten to fifteen years ago, Kazan was hardly known internationally, but now, among countries in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the city is recognized as an attractive business hub with tremendous potential. At the same time, Tatarstan has a real opportunity to significantly expand its exports of halal products to OIC countries,” he said.
Belatik emphasized that KazanForum provides a valuable platform for businesses, government agencies, and investors to meet, exchange contacts, and work together on joint projects.
KazanForum 2025 will be held in May at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Center.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Based on materials from TASS