Putin Highlights BRICS' Economic Lead Over G7 at India Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the growing economic influence of the BRICS grouping while addressing the BRICS Business Forum ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit in India.

At Leaders' Session of BRICS Business Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, "Right now, the world is undergoing structural, deep, profound shifts. It is explained by the fact that the so-called old leaders, which used to be the vanguard of economic growth in the second… pic.twitter.com/erdeFlizlO

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Putin said BRICS countries generated more than 40% of the world's GDP in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms over the past five years, compared with around 29% for the G7.

According to Putin, the bloc's economic strength is underpinned by its large population, expanding consumer markets and the growing role of emerging economies in global growth.

BRICS Commands Growing Share of Global Economy

Putin emphasized that BRICS represents more than half of the world's population, giving the grouping significant economic and market potential. He described the bloc as an increasingly important platform for cooperation as new centres of global economic growth emerge.

The Russian president also pointed to Russia's economic performance in recent years. He said Russia's GDP increased by 10.3% between 2023 and 2025, despite the country facing more than 30,000 sanctions.

Focus on Equal-Footed Cooperation

Putin stressed the importance of equal-footed cooperation among BRICS' 11 core members and its partner countries. He said the grouping's diversity and economic potential could help create new engines of global growth.

His remarks come as India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, bringing together leaders and representatives from major emerging economies to discuss economic cooperation, trade, investment and global challenges.

The comments underline BRICS' ambition to strengthen its role in the global economic system and expand cooperation among its members and partners.