Partner states can increase exports of Russian products according to Halal standards and invest profitably in construction in Russian regions.
Rustam Minnikhanov, Head of the Russia-Islamic World Strategic Vision Group and Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, told about new opportunities for cooperation at a meeting with ambassadors of member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on 5 March.
The meeting took place at the Reception House of the Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow. “On the example of the Republic of Tatarstan - one of the leading Russian regions - we can see how Russia is expanding its interaction with the Islamic world, along with establishing trade, economic and investment contacts, we are successfully developing cultural and humanitarian ties. Our republic is one of the pilot regions for introducing the principles of Islamic banking and financing in Russia, active work is underway to develop the Halal industry, and much attention is paid to Islamic education”, Rustam Minnikhanov said.
Bahrain is already interested in halal products from the Russian region. During a recent meeting, the King of Bahrain and the Rais of Tatarstan agreed to supply Bahrain with products manufactured in the republic according to Halal standards.
Rustam Minnikhanov also informed about the opportunities for Bahraini developers to profitably implement construction projects in the territory of Tatarstan and invited the Kingdom delegation to take part in the international forum «Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum», which
will be held in Kazan on 14-19 May 2024. This year forum programme includes intergovernmental commissions, as well as separate round tables on Russia-Malaysia, Russia-Qatar and Russia-Azerbaijan. Iran, Egypt, the Republic of Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and others will present their stands in the exhibition of economic achievements.
According to the organisers, the key topics will be Halal industry, Islamic finance, development of transport corridors, education. Tourism, including medical tourism, will also be discussed. The programme on cultural issues has also been expanded: there will be separate events on digital Islamic art, creative economy, and the film industry. Sports development will be an important topic. The CCI International Forum will bring together business representatives from Islamic countries.
Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan reminded that in 2022 Kazan received the status of the OIC Youth Capital and in 2025 the First Islamic Youth Games are planned to be held in the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan with the support of federal authorities and the Organisation of Islamic
Cooperation. Athletes aged 14-16 from more than 40 countries of the Islamic world will compete in 20 sports.