Kazan: Russia signalled its commitment to ongoing cooperation with Islamic countries in sectors including energy, industry, information technology (IT), construction, agriculture, finance, education, healthcare, and tourism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in a speech by Russian President Vladimir Putin, delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin at the annual meeting of the Strategic Vision Group 'Russia - Islamic World', he said Russia remained committed to expanding friendly and mutually beneficial ties with Islamic states. The meeting was held in conjunction with the 17th International Economic Forum Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum 2026, here today.
Putin stated that the forum in Kazan had brought together politicians, business leaders, scholars, and experts from Russia and abroad to discuss economic, humanitarian, and spiritual cooperation between Russia and the Islamic world. He emphasized that such cooperation was based on shared values, respect for cultural and civilizational diversity, and a commitment towards dialogue and partnership for a stable and prosperous future.
He noted the historical coexistence of different religions, ethnicities, and peoples in Russia, each preserving its own unique identity and traditions. He highlighted that the forum being held in the Republic of Tatarstan was symbolic, as it is a region where interethnic harmony is carefully preserved. Putin also noted that Islam is widely practiced in Russia, with millions of Muslims contributing to various sectors such as the economy, science, and culture.
Russia participates in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as an observer state, and Kazan was named the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for 2026. The KazanForum 2026, held from May 12 to 16, serves as a platform for strengthening ties between Russia and OIC countries in trade, economic, scientific, technical, social, and cultural areas.
Meanwhile, Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais (head) of the Republic of Tatarstan, discussed the transition towards a multipolar world order, which has prompted Russia and Islamic countries to enhance cooperation in various sectors. He mentioned that relations between Russia and OIC member states have become more constructive and comprehensive over the years, encompassing economic development, security, cultural exchange, and interfaith dialogue.
Minnikhanov, also the chairman of the Strategic Vision Group Russia-Islamic World, highlighted the 'Greater Eurasian Partnership' initiative proposed by Putin. This initiative aims to integrate cooperation frameworks involving the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), China's Belt and Road Initiative, and OIC member states. He stated that the initiative seeks to align strategic interests and strengthen infrastructure and trade integration beyond institutional barriers.
According to Minnikhanov, the participation of representatives from more than 100 countries at KazanForum reflected continued international engagement with Russia despite current geopolitical challenges.