Kazan: Assistant to the President of Tatarstan for the Strategic Vision Group 'Russia-Islamic World,' Marat Gatin, expressed hopes for increased Tunisian involvement in upcoming editions of the International Economic Forum 'Russia - Islamic World,' held in Kazan from May 12 to 17, with participation from over 100 countries. According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, Gatin emphasized in a conversation with TAP news agency that the annual forum is a critical international platform designed to bolster economic and trade relations between Russia and Islamic countries. It also provides significant business opportunities for Tunisian companies in various sectors. Gatin specifically mentioned the halal food industry as a sector with substantial potential for partnerships between the two regions. He described the forum as a 'real launchpad' for Tunisian companies aiming to enter Russian markets and those of other participating nations. The Russian official also reflected on the strong ties between Tatarstan and Tun isia, highlighting Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov's visit to Tunisia in October 2018. This visit contributed to enhancing economic and trade collaboration between the two regions. During that visit, the 'Tunisia-Tatarstan Business Forum' was organized to foster trade exchanges, promote Tunisian products in Russian markets, and explore new cooperation and investment opportunities. Gatin disclosed that efforts are underway, in collaboration with the Strategic Vision Group 'Russia - Islamic World' and the International Centre for Strategic Security and Military Studies, to establish a 'Friends of the Group Club' to support ongoing communication and cooperation. Meanwhile, Talia Minullina, CEO of the Investment Development Agency of the Republic of Tatarstan, stated that organizers are actively promoting the forum to attract new participants globally, noting Tunisia's invitation to this year's event. Minullina remarked that the forum serves not only as a platform for economic and investment cooperati on but also as a significant cultural and civilizational event. It underscores Russia's, especially Tatarstan's, openness to the Islamic world and enhances opportunities for cultural exchange. She highlighted the forum's role in facilitating the signing of numerous agreements in sectors like halal industries, Islamic finance, education, health, and energy, with benefits extending beyond the event. Minullina also noted that the women's track within the Kazan International Economic Forum has matured into a dynamic economic platform for cross-border deals, reflecting women's pivotal role in 'business diplomacy.' She stressed that empowering women entrepreneurs in technology, Islamic finance, and halal industries is essential for reinforcing economic sovereignty and stabilizing emerging markets amid current geopolitical shifts.