# Russian president Vladimir Putin has blamed Western sanctions for industrial decline and growing economic pressure. Speaking via an interpreter at the BRICS business forum leaders’ dialogue in New Delhi, India, Putin said sanctions had contributed to falling industrial output, growing public debt and budget problems. He called on BRICS countries to strengthen trade, investment and business cooperation, citing Russia remains open to working with partners around the world:
Putin criticises Western sanctions at BRICS business summit [SOUND]
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