The third Russia-Africa Valdai Conference, held in Pretoria, underscored a commitment to sovereign cooperation and a rejection of neocolonialism. Andrey Bystritsky, Chairman of the Board of the Foundation for Development and Support of the International Valdai Discussion Club, emphasized the importance of expanding the community of African and Russian experts to strengthen these ties.
Roman Ambarov, Russia’s Ambassador to South Africa, highlighted that Africa is not an arena for geopolitical scramble but a space for mutually beneficial collaboration. The conference focused on crucial issues such as deepening Russia-South Africa relations and replicating the success of BRICS.
Phumzile Mazibuko, Chief Director of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, stressed that her country’s approach to its relationships with Russia and the world is not just about foreign policy but about sovereignty, African unity, and a prosperous future for the continent. South Africa is also advocating for a new international development funding agreement to address historical inequalities and prepare for future shocks, with Russian support for its G20 presidency priorities. The event reinforces the pursuit of a multipolar world order.
