Multipolar world in focus as Russia hosts 2nd int’l congress

From Hamza Idris, Moscow

More than 300 representatives from 130 countries are in Russia for the second congress of the International Russophile Movement (IRM).

Planned to hold between 26th and 27th February, 2024, the participants, with diverse professional backgrounds and religious persuasions were drawn from all the continents of the world.

IRM, with the support of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Administration of the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin was created in 2023, at the founding congress in Moscow.

One of its aims, according to the founders, is to counter the antics of bi-polarism being championed by the West, and champions a world in which fairness is the norm, and beliefs and cultures of people are not polluted.

IRM also opposes the unleashed campaign of Russophobia, as well as canvasses support for the Russian humanitarian and cultural presence in the world with the participation of representatives of various countries, various religious and political beliefs.

Those who spoke at the event, among them Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, philosopher Alexander Dugin, among others, emphasized the indispensability of a multipolar world order, dialogue of cultures and civilizations, protection of traditional values, opposition to Western hegemony, persistent destruction of the institution of family and most importantly a peaceful world.

In his speech, Vice-President of the IRM, Souleymane Anta Ndiaye from Senegal, said western propaganda was deeply entrenched in Africa, hence the need for an alternative narrative.

He said Africa and its people were suffering a lot and, therefore, in support of a multi-polar world that will support their social, economic and cultural emancipation.

Ndiaye said he was happy with the impressive participation of African delegates and expressed confidence that they have a lot to offer going forward.

Multipolarity—the idea that there are many important global powers, not just a few superpowers, also aims to achieve economic interdependence, cultural pluralism, diplomacy and multilateralism, technological advancements, security and cooperation, adaptability and flexibility.