The Russian Federation has underscored the need for respect of international laws and a more just new world order, whereby countries can operate in multipolar era without external pressure.
Amb. Andrey Podelyshev, Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, against the backdrop of the embassy’s dedication to the Russian Diplomatic Service Day.
The envoy explained that the day was designed to mark professional holiday reflecting the traditions of Russian diplomacy and its contribution to dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation among nations.
According to him, it is also a good occasion to speak about the changes shaping the international system and the principles guiding Russia’s foreign policy in the emerging multipolar era.
Podelyshev said, “International cooperation remains essential for stability and development, yet diplomacy is increasingly replaced by unilateral actions and attempts to impose decisions on others.
“Many states face disregard for sovereignty and lack the means to defend their rights.
“The way forward lies in full respect for international law and the emergence of a more just multipolar world order, where each country can choose its own path without external pressure.
“Multipolarity is not a slogan but an objective reality already taking shape, and Russia will continue to pursue a balanced foreign policy in line with this trend.”
He quoted the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, saying the era of a unipolar world is over and that no single model can claim universal status, while describing such as a shift that is visible in economics.
He explained that the new world order of multipolar system to be characterised by civilisational models, legal equality of states and respect for identity among other things that strengthen legal foundation of multipolarity.
This, according to him, the UN Charter remains the cornerstone of the international system, adding such sets out the prohibition of the threat or use of force and peaceful settlement of disputes.
Others include, non-interference, sovereign equality, self-determination and human rights, saying Russia stands for strengthening the central role of the UN.
Podelyshev emphasised the basis of Russia’s foreign policy doctrine, saying the country’s diplomatic tradition is built on the balance of interests as the foundation of sustainable agreements.
“Today Russia continues to oppose unilateral domination and stands for solutions where all participants gain the win-win approach. This applies to arms control, conflict settlement, and trade and economic rules,” he said.
He further spoke about Africa in the context of multipolar world order, while commending the continent rising as an independent actor in world politics, not an object of external influence.
He revealed that moves are on to work with Africa’s sub-regions, describing Nigeria as a partner of strategic importance, saying cooperation with Nigeria largely shapes Russia’s prospects in West Africa.
“Nigeria is a potential anchor of regional stability and development,” he said.
