Moscow: The first international BRICS Motor Rally culminated with a grand finale at VDNKh in the Russian capital. Representatives from 20 countries embarked on a 1,600 km journey on motorways to evaluate the nation’s commercial, industrial, and cultural potential.

According to Emirates News Agency, the rally was inaugurated by young enthusiasts, with a convoy of 50 cars setting off from Yekaterinburg. In Kazan, the event transitioned to a business-focused phase, as entrepreneurs and industrialists explored promising cooperation opportunities in Nizhny Novgorod and the Vladimir Oblast. These regions are actively exporting locally produced goods to BRICS countries.

Vladimir Balakin, Deputy Minister of Industry, Trade, and Entrepreneurship of the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, highlighted the increasing interest in non-resource exports. He noted the potential for supplying food and agricultural products, particularly to India, China, and African nations.

In Suzdal, another key stop on the route, participants focused on industrial cooperation. Denis Sinyavsky, Minister of Economic Development and Industry of the Vladimir Oblast, reported that the city showcased enterprises dedicated to producing high-value-added products. He expressed interest in attracting international partners to traditional industries centered on processing, emphasizing that their exports are primarily finished products rather than raw materials.

The motor rally aimed to strengthen humanitarian and business ties within the BRICS+ format. The route along the M-12 ‘Vostok’ motorway was strategically selected to connect Russia’s major industrial and cultural centers.

Pavel Knyazev, Ambassador-at-Large of the Russian Foreign Ministry and Sous-Sherpa to BRICS, emphasized the importance of such interactions in fostering cooperation and friendly relations among countries, allowing them to better understand each other and showcase Russia’s potential.