Kazan, a millennia-old city on the banks of the Volga River, is set to host the first leaders’ summit of BRICS following its expansion. At this moment, the charming “Kazan spirit” meets the unique BRICS ethos.

On October 20, banners for the BRICS summit adorned the streets of Kazan, as the city prepares for the sixteenth meeting of BRICS leaders, scheduled for October 22-24, 2024. The vibrant BRICS banners, in the colors of the Russian flag, stand out against the clear blue sky, announcing “BRICS 2024 KAZAN RUSSIA,” infusing the atmosphere with excitement.

As the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan within the Russian Federation, Kazan boasts a strategic location where the Volga, Kazanka, and Kama Rivers converge. Historically, it has been a hub of trade and cultural exchange.

The origin of the name “Kazan” has various interpretations. One theory suggests that to defend against invasions, an ancient wooden fort was built here, resembling an overturned cauldron. In Tatar, the word “Kazan” translates to “cauldron,” capturing the essence of its diverse cultural influences.

Over the past millennium, Kazan has transformed into a “melting pot” of various cultures. The architectural diversity in the city exemplifies this fusion, notably seen in the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Kremlin, like its counterpart in Moscow, features a blend of architectural styles from Bulgaria, Italy, and Russia, making it a must-visit landmark.

Walking up the stone steps of the Kazan Kremlin, you can almost feel the weight of time. From its original wooden defenses to the current white stone walls, it has evolved from a fortress to a scenic historical site, witnessing centuries of history unfolding on this land.

As the summit approaches, the streets flanking the Kremlin are decorated with BRICS summit banners, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. The Kremlin not only stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and cultural diversity but also resonates with the open, inclusive, and cooperative spirit that underpins the foundation of BRICS.

If you were to recommend a “City Walk” in Kazan, culture would undoubtedly be the key theme. One end of Kremlin Street leads to the Kremlin itself, while the other connects to Kazan Federal University, a prestigious institution celebrating its 220th anniversary this year. It is the third university established in Russia, following Moscow State University and St. Petersburg University, and still houses classrooms where notable figures like Lenin and Tolstoy once studied.

Over the years, Kazan’s deep cultural roots have enriched its identity. Renowned authors such as Pushkin found inspiration here, composing works including “The Captain’s Daughter,” while Gorky incorporated his experiences in Kazan into his autobiographical novel “My University.” This city has served as a wellspring of inspiration for literary giants.

Cultural exchange has always been one of the three driving forces behind BRICS collaboration. Events such as film festivals, sports competitions, and co-produced films and documentaries create bridges between the peoples of BRICS nations. As commentators have noted, the success of BRICS cooperation underscores the potential for different cultural values to interact and thrive together.

As Kazan prepares to welcome the BRICS family, the convergence of the “Kazan spirit” with the principles of BRICS—openness, cooperation, and cultural connectivity—promises a unique expression of the collaborative appeal of this international partnership.