New Delhi: Russia has appreciated India's leadership in BRICS and the results achieved during it. Russian Presidential Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that his country is continuously working towards further strengthening cooperation among BRICS. He told that about 90 percent of Russia's payments with BRICS countries are now being made in the respective countries' own currency i.e. national currency. This is increasing options for business and economic transactions.
Peskov clarified that the purpose of payment in local currencies is not direct dedollarization. According to him, its main goal is to make payment methods more diverse. However, he also said that some countries are using their national currency as an instrument of foreign policy.
Increasing cooperation in BRICS
According to Peskov, cooperation within BRICS is being taken forward mainly in three major areas. Among these, humanitarian and economic cooperation are prominent. Russia is also committed to taking forward the process of adding new members to BRICS. In the field of security also, the member countries of the organization are strengthening the framework of mutual cooperation. This includes cooperation in countering terrorism as well as combating narcotics and drug trafficking. Apart from this, efforts are also going on to work together among BRICS countries in the field of space.
Called India a strategic partner
Talking about relations with India, Peskov described it as a strategic partner of Russia. He said that both the countries are pursuing cooperation in many different areas. Most of the payments between Russia and India are also being made in local currencies.
Russia's stance on Ukraine war
Regarding the Ukraine war, Peskov said that Russia is trying to stop the conflict and find a peaceful solution. Referring to the events of 2014, he accused America, Britain and some European countries of plotting a coup to weaken Russia. He welcomed the efforts being made by India for peace. Also praised US President Donald Trump's efforts to end the war.
However, Peskov alleged that some European countries were pushing Ukraine towards Russia's strategic defeat. He said that Russia will not accept this situation.