"Economic and trade cooperation between BRICS countries is experiencing vigorous development. I hope that businesspeople from the five countries will work together to face any challenges and make contributions to boost each state's economy to a higher level."

Xi Jinping, president of China

"The development bank of every country has signed a cooperation agreement with the BRICS New Development Bank to ensure their interaction. The AIIB, BRICS bank, central bank and multilateral financial institutions will work together to push for economic growth."

Dilma Rousseff, president of Brazil

"Economic cooperation is the pillar of BRICS cooperation and also a major driving force. The BRICS countries have their own competitive advantages, and they need to further strengthen their economic cooperation as the world economy is so fragile while there is a crisis in the European economy."

Narendra Modi, prime minister of India

"Countries should adopt a national currency swap more widely in trade. This will help them improve their trade. We should also adopt a more convenient business environment."

Vladimir Putin, president of Russia

"South Africa approved 10-year port of entry visas for business representatives, which I hope can help businesspeople cooperate and create uninterrupted dialogue. ... I sincerely ask BRICS leaders to consider the possibility of launching similar visas."

Jacob Zuma, president of South Africa