KAZAN: The XVI BRICS Summit in Kazan is set to bring together representatives from 36 countries and six international organizations, focusing on pressing global issues and the potential expansion of the group. The summit, which will commence on October 22, will include discussions on financial cooperation and the inclusion of new member states, according to Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov. According to Emirates News Agency, the summit will begin with an informal lunch at Kazan City Hall, followed by a meeting of BRICS member states on October 23. Key topics on the agenda include international cooperation, financial partnerships, and the sensitive issue of expanding BRICS membership. The potential formalization of new partnerships within the association is anticipated to be a significant point of discussion. A gala reception hosted by the Russian President will take place on the evening of October 23, with leaders and heads of delegations from BRICS countries and other participating states in attendan ce. The summit will continue on October 24 with the BRICS+ format, where representatives from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America will evaluate economic and trade cooperation, cultural and humanitarian efforts, and issues related to sustainable development and food security. Presentations by Dilma Rousseff, President of the BRICS New Development Bank, and Sergey Katyrin, Chairman of the Russian part of the BRICS Business Council, are scheduled for the same day. The summit will conclude with the adoption of the BRICS Kazan Declaration, summarizing the outcomes of the Russian presidency. The document is currently being prepared. The summit is organized under the themes "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security" and "BRICS and the Global South: Building a Better World Together," highlighting the group's commitment to multilateral cooperation and development.