Russian President Vladimir Putin says BRICS is becoming an increasingly influential force in global affairs, highlighting the group’s economic, technological and demographic weight. Speaking at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Putin said the bloc represents nearly half of the world’s population, around 40% of global GDP and a significant share of the world’s land area. He called for stronger multilateralism and greater representation for countries from Asia, Africa and Latin America in global institutions. Putin also criticised tariffs, sanctions and economic pressure, while urging BRICS nations to strengthen cooperation and help shape a more multipolar world order.