Konstantin Kosachev: Sovereignty Is Not Isolation, but the Freedom to Shape One’s Future
The 3rd Russia–Africa Summit is scheduled to take place in Moscow on October 28–29, 2026, under the motto “For Peace, Security and Development.”
Participants are expected to discuss expanding economic cooperation, trade ties and investment, as well as the peaceful use of nuclear energy, the creation of independent payment systems and food security.
Ahead of the summit, Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, spoke to the IT Russia media platform about the principles of Russia–Africa cooperation, the role of BRICS and the importance of technological sovereignty.
– Russia–Africa relations should develop on the basis of mutual respect and consideration for each country’s national interests. Every country has its own priorities, and our task is to find common ground that allows us to build long-term cooperation. The expansion of ties with Ethiopia, in particular, demonstrates the potential for trade and economic, scientific and technological, and humanitarian cooperation.
International relations are changing. More and more countries are interested in cooperation beyond established political and economic frameworks. BRICS is becoming one of the platforms where countries with different interests can seek common solutions. It is essential that this kind of engagement does not lead to the creation of new blocs or involve any one country dictating terms to others.
The same applies to technological development. Sovereignty is not isolation, but the ability to determine one’s own future. At a time when financial and economic tools can be used to exert political pressure, countries need to seek alternative mechanisms for international payments. They should have a choice, including when it comes to financial infrastructure.
The 2nd Global Digital Forum, recently held in Moscow and attended by representatives of various countries, including African nations, provided a platform for discussing technological cooperation. The next key milestone is the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, which will take place in Moscow in late October. The focus should be on practical areas of cooperation: digitalization, scientific and technological exchanges, joint development projects and workforce training. It is important to go beyond declarations and create the conditions for projects that serve the interests of Russia and its African partners.
