The Russian president said international interest in the group continues to grow as leaders meet for the final day of the New Delhi summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described BRICS as a key driver of global economic growth as the group's 18th summit enters its second and final day in New Delhi.

Addressing the BRICS Outreach/BRICS+ session on Sunday, Putin said international interest in the group "continues to grow," arguing that its commitment to an "independent and autonomous course" and international law appeals to countries around the world. He also said BRICS accounts for 49% of global GDP growth and that its potential for further development is "far from exhausted."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the same session, said the trust of Global South nations in BRICS has grown because "their voices are heard, their experiences are respected and solutions are crafted not just for them, but with them." He also announced that members had reached consensus on a BRICS Integrated Early Warning System for preventing and responding to infectious diseases, as well as guidelines for integrating early-warning data in disaster management.

The expanded session brings together leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, outreach invitees and representatives of international organizations, with discussions focused on resilience, innovation, cooperation and inclusive global growth. Further bilateral meetings are also possible on the sidelines.

On Saturday, BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration, which calls for the reform of global institutions to give emerging markets and developing countries greater representation and condemns unilateral economic measures that violate international law. The document also calls for "maximum restraint" in the Middle East and stresses dialogue and diplomacy as the means of resolving international disputes.

Catch up on our live coverage of the first day here.

Follow the second and final day of the BRICS Summit on Sunday below.