Following the plenary session of the XV International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum 2024," Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Marat Khusnullin, highlighted the significant progress in relations between Russia and Muslim countries facilitated by the forum. Speaking to journalists, Khusnullin emphasized that KazanForum has played a pivotal role in enhancing these ties, resulting in increased trade and cooperation.
"Thanks to KazanForum, we have become a little closer with our colleagues from Muslim countries. This closeness has tangible benefits: our trade turnover with the OIC countries increased by more than 30% last year. We have seen a rise in tourist exchanges and a greater flow of products between our nations. The forum itself saw participation from over 20,000 people, an increase from the previous year, and welcomed representatives from 85 countries and 84 regions of Russia," Khusnullin stated.
He elaborated that over 120 agreements were signed during the forum, highlighting the practical outcomes of these engagements. "These are not just agreements on paper; they are concrete business processes that are already operational. The most important aspect is the horizontal connections established through these interactions, which drive ongoing cooperation," he added.
Khusnullin also discussed the advancements in logistics, specifically the "North-South" project, which has seen significant progress over the past year. He noted the signing of an agreement with Azerbaijan and Iran to extend the railroad to the Persian Gulf ports and the commencement of road construction by Turkmenistan along the Caspian Sea, aimed at connecting with Iran and Kazakhstan.
"My colleagues from Kazakhstan and I have synchronized our construction plans. The Moscow-Kazan-Yekaterinburg road is a key segment of the Europe-Western China route. Even in the past year, we have seen very positive developments in this direction," Khusnullin concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the Rais RT