Turning the gaze eastward: Moscow State University Professor Alexei Maslov on Russia’s rapprochement with Asian and African countries
A
scientific seminar on global security issues took place at the National Centre
RUSSIA. The Director of the Institute of Asian and African Studies at Lomonosov
Moscow State University, Professor Alexei Maslov, noted in his address that
Russia is undergoing a psychological and intellectual turn towards Asian and
African partner countries.
"Turning
the gaze eastward is undoubtedly a matter for separate discussion. I want to
note that in recent years Russia has learnt to understand many subtleties in
relations, primarily with Asia. This is an awareness that the world exists
beyond Western culture, that there are more interesting options and partners in
scientific research, education, and economics than, for example, partners from
the USA or Europe," emphasised Alexei Maslov.
The
professor considers it important that the development of Russia and Asian and
African countries is brought together by shared values, reliance on scientific
and technological achievements, the ability to listen to other countries, and
most importantly — the ability to defend their national interests.
"The
problem of many developing countries was that they gave up their sovereignty in
exchange for a peaceful life, financing, and investments — this seemed like the
right model. This happened to many countries in Central Asia and Africa and led
to them being forced to defend their interests independently, even with weapons
in hand," explained Alexei Maslov.
The seminar
took place within the framework of the 13th International Meeting of High
Representatives for Security Issues. Around 130 delegations from more than 100
countries belonging to BRICS, the SCO, ASEAN, the CIS, the Arab League, the
African Union, the CSTO and other international organisations are participating
in the three-day event. Over three days, guests are discussing the formation of
a new, more just architecture of equal and indivisible security that responds
to modern realities.
