Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin said BRICS countries account for 40% of the world's gross domestic product.
Putin said the G7 countries account for 29% of global gross domestic product. Questioning why the G7 is described as "large" on the basis of this figure, Putin said that almost half of global economic growth comes from countries in the BRICS partnership. He noted that the G7's share of growth was 18%.
Putin blamed Western countries
Putin argued that Western countries were resorting to various methods to regain the leadership position they held in the past, saying competition had been pushed to an unpleasant level.
Putin claimed that steps were being taken to destroy industrial and logistics facilities as well as pipelines. He said efforts were being made to block international transport corridors and seize vessels, and added that sanctions were being imposed on countries defending their national interests.
Putin said BRICS should be open to all countries
Putin said more than 30,000 sanctions had been imposed on Russia and stated that his country was continuing to develop despite difficult conditions.
Putin said BRICS's capabilities should be utilized and emphasized that the organization should be open to all countries. According to a statement from the Kremlin Palace, Putin also met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.