MOSCOW (Sputnik) — BRICS is an association of five major developing economies, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
"BRICS has been gaining influence in the world. It is considered one of the most effective platforms for integration," Matvienko said.
She added that the members of the BRICS had no fundamental contradictions since all the states show real interest in deepening cooperation within the bloc.
"I want to emphasize that we are not friends against anyone. This friendship benefits our countries and we have a huge potential for cooperation," she stressed.
On Tuesday, the delegation of the Russian Federation Council led by Matvienko, began its official visit to Brazil where it intends to discuss the development of inter-parliamentary relations, economic and cultural cooperation.
