Bloc's experience, influence rising, Indian officials say

The BRICS members - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - have gained momentum in their economic and political cooperation, seeing their influence increase at both regional and international levels, said Indian officials and analysts.

Tarun Vijay, chairman of the India-China Parliamentary Group, said that the BRICS Summit is "a very good platform", through which the member countries can exchange their experience on such issues as "elimination of poverty, increasing growth, and bringing happiness to millions of people".

Vijay made the remarks while attending a seminar to discuss the experience of governance among the BRICS members and some other developing countries. The seminar was held on Aug 17-18 in Quanzhou, a city close to Xiamen, in Fujian province.