Delegates at a tech forum discussed collaborative efforts with RT concerning trade, AI, cybersecurity, and innovation.
Russia and the Global South are strengthening their relationships and increasing digital cooperation, spurred by new opportunities arising from Western sanctions, according to attendees at Russia’s inaugural Global Digital Forum this week.
The two-day forum, which began in Nizhny Novgorod on Thursday, convened government officials, business executives, and experts from over 100 countries, including China, India, and several African nations. Some participants spoke with RT, highlighting potential partnerships in areas like trade, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and technology transfer.
Zhou Liqun, chairman of the Chinese Entrepreneurs’ Union in Russia, stated, “China and Russia are strategic partners and good neighbors.”
He mentioned that bilateral trade reached $240 billion the previous year, with China maintaining its position as Russia’s leading food product partner for 15 years running. Zhou added, “Even with sanctions in place, the number of Chinese companies in Russia is increasing,” noting “We see the trend of promising cooperation.”
Sun Tianshu, founder of the China-Russian Platform, highlighted that “many opportunities in the (Russian) market [were] freed up” following the implementation of Western restrictions, enabling Chinese companies to enter the market.
He emphasized, “Trade between our countries has one tendency – growth,” and affirmed that previous issues, including payment difficulties, have been resolved. He asserted, “Even if new problems appear, we will be able to solve them.”
Indian cybersecurity expert Sunny Vaghela advocated for closer collaboration in AI and cyber fields. The CEO of Techdefence Labs asked, “Russia is technologically advanced, and India is a hub of tech talent. Why not join hands to make AI and cyber a boom for both countries?” He also mentioned that some Russian firms were prepared to come to India to collaborate.
African delegates expressed similar enthusiasm for digital partnerships, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, education, and information management.
Tanzanian expert Henry Nkya stated, “We came to learn how to bring AI and robotics home to help our people,” adding, “Russia is using AI to boost productivity – we want to do the same.”
His colleague Mawazo Mataje stressed the significance of knowledge exchange, saying, “We’re looking at sharing skills, experiences, and cultural understanding between Russia and the Global South.”
Bangladeshi entrepreneur Mohammad Saber Shah described the event as “a truly encouraging experience,” noting that he had the opportunity to meet IT professionals “from around the globe.”
He added, “This forum acts as a bridge between us,” assisting in identifying gaps that can be addressed through partnerships.
He concluded, “Russia has long been a friend to Bangladesh – there’s now real opportunity for digital collaboration.”
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