Ilsur Metshin and Bheke Stofile have discussed the initiative on creation an Association of BRICS Cities

Today, the Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin met with the President of the South African Local Government Association Bheke Stofile (South Africa) in the Turkish city of Konya. The meeting took place during the World Council of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), which is taking place in Turkey these days.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the creation of the Association of BRICS Cities. Bheke Stofile supported the idea of establishing an association and expressed hope that this initiative will find a response among the members of the international association. He noted that the association will become an important element of inter-municipal and international cooperation of the cities of the member countries of the association. It is very important to promote economic, social and cultural development on the modern agenda, and strengthening local authorities in the BRICS countries will ensure a more effective and democratic public policy.

For reference, in April, Russian President Vladimir Putin designated Kazan to host meeting of the heads of BRICS states. The summit will take place in autumn 2024, dates to be approved later through diplomatic channels. Representatives of 26 states will take part in it.

In September, Ilsur Metshin proposed to establish an Association of BRICS cities. In his opinion, it is necessary for the municipalities of friendly countries to have their own voice in the international arena.