Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s video message to the participants in the 4th BRICS+ International Municipal Forum, Moscow, November 24, 2022

Dear friends,

I am glad to welcome the participants in the 4th BRICS+ International Municipal Forum traditionally held in the hospitable St Petersburg. Over the short time since the first forum, the format has won the reputation of a relevant and dynamically developing platform for cooperation between regional and municipal officials and business communities.

It is good to see that not only BRICS delegations but also representatives of our partners in Asia, Africa, Central and South America are taking part in the forum. We welcome their genuine interest in developing multi-dimensional cooperation with our group. And it is not surprising. After all, the forum is based on the principles of equality, mutual respect and fair treatment. BRICS encapsulates synergy of cultures and civilisations representing different regions of the planet. This international framework is an example of multilateral diplomacy that matches the realities of the 21st century.

I am pleased to see that the forum offers yet another intensive programme. You will be discussing major courses and national strategies in the sustainable development of regions. You will be sharing best municipal governance practices and will review prospects for implementing joint projects. In no small measure, this kind of meaningful dialogue seeking practical solutions to improve the quality of life for our citizens forms a future-oriented and constructive cooperation agenda.

It is obvious that solutions to the numerous problems of modern times, be it security or the economy, can only be found through collective efforts, relying on the balance of interests and generally recognised international legal norms. I am confident that today’s event will follow the same constructive course as the cooperation within BRICS in general.

I hope that the forum will contribute to strengthening friendship and trust between nations, leading towards new joint initiatives. Participation in this forum is also a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the unique cultural and historical legacy of our country and discover the captivating beauty of Northern Palmyra.

Finally, I wish you productive work, interesting meetings, good health and all the best.