Russia and Global South deepen digital cooperation in AI, cybersecurity, and trade at the Global Digital Forum, shaping a multipolar technology future.
 |
| The Global Digital Forum highlights Russia and Global South’s expanding partnerships in technology, AI, and cybersecurity, driving a multipolar digital era. Image: CH |
Nizhny Novgorod, Russia – June 7, 2025:
At Russia’s first-ever Global Digital Forum held in Nizhny Novgorod, government officials, business leaders, and technology experts from over 100 countries gathered to discuss expanding digital cooperation between Russia and the Global South. This milestone event underscored the growing momentum toward a multipolar digital future, accelerated by new opportunities arising from Western sanctions.
Among the attendees were representatives from China, India, and several African nations, who emphasized prospects for collaboration in key areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, trade, and technology transfer.
Zhou Liqun, chairman of the Chinese Entrepreneurs’ Union in Russia, described China and Russia as “strategic partners and good neighbors,” noting that bilateral trade reached $240 billion last year. He highlighted China’s role as Russia’s top food product partner for 15 consecutive years and said that despite sanctions, Chinese companies’ presence in Russia is expanding, reflecting “promising cooperation.”
Sun Tianshu, founder of the China-Russian Platform, pointed out that Western sanctions have opened new market opportunities in Russia for Chinese firms. “Trade between our countries has one tendency — growth,” he said, noting that past issues such as payment difficulties have been resolved and expressing confidence in overcoming future challenges.
Indian cybersecurity specialist Sunny Vaghela, CEO of Techdefence Labs, called for enhanced partnerships in AI and cybersecurity. “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 said, mentioning that some Russian companies are ready to collaborate with Indian firms.
African delegates shared similar aspirations, focusing on digital innovation in agriculture, education, and information management. Tanzanian expert Henry Nkya expressed a desire to leverage AI and robotics for local productivity gains, inspired by Russia’s experience. His colleague Mawazo Mataje highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing and cultural exchange between Russia and the Global South.
Bangladeshi entrepreneur Mohammad Saber Shah described the forum as “a truly encouraging experience,” praising the opportunity to connect with global IT professionals. “This forum acts as a bridge between us, helping to identify gaps that partnerships can fill,” he said. “Russia has long been a friend to Bangladesh — there’s now real opportunity for digital collaboration.”
The forum symbolized a collective push toward a multipolar digital world where Russia and Global South countries collaborate closely to harness emerging technologies, boost trade, and innovate beyond Western-centric frameworks, shaping the future of global technology cooperation.