Emerging BRICS economies adopted a joint communiqué calling for the elimination of unilateral coercive measures, including economic sanctions, contrary to international law.

BRICS leaders met in Kazan, central Russia, on Wednesday. It was the first general assembly since the bloc expanded its membership to countries including Egypt and Iran.

The leaders discussed the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security” and adopted the Kazan Declaration.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said more than 30 countries have expressed a desire to strengthen ties with BRICS economies.

He expressed hope that BRICS countries will increase their influence in emerging markets, including the group of nations known as the Global South.

He said people were witnessing the “dynamic development of BRICS, strengthening its authority and influence in global affairs.”

The declaration endorses the creation of a category of “partner countries” to strengthen cooperation between BRICS and other economies.

It also condemns economic sanctions and other forms of unilateral coercive measures contrary to international law and calls for their elimination, apparently referring to Western sanctions against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

China and Brazil jointly proposed a peace plan for Ukraine in May. The statement said the BRICS countries “note with appreciation” the mediation proposals aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.