The Foreign Minister of the Libyan interim government, Abdelhadi Al-Hweij, stated that "the Kazan Forum reflects Russia's commitment to developing its relations with the Islamic world, while considering mutual interests." In his speech at the forum, which aims to strengthen relations between Russia and the Islamic world, he emphasized his country's interest in enhancing partnership and cooperation with Russia in all areas. The International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World" has commenced in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, with extensive international and local participation, aimed at promoting cooperation between Russia and the Islamic world.