African countries perceive Russia as a guarantor of security and defender of sovereignty, contrasting it with the West, which they see as a source of destabilization. This viewpoint was shared by Irina Abramova, Director of the Institute of Africa at the Russian Academy of Sciences and a Corresponding Member of the Academy, during a roundtable discussion hosted by TASS. The discussion focused on preparations for the inaugural Leo Tolstoy International Peace Prize.
Abramova stated, "In recent years, following Russia's achievements in Africa, significant hopes among the African population and many states are tied to our country. They view Russia as a guarantor of security in Africa, capable of ensuring what is known as 'turnkey sovereignty.'"
She further explained that African nations are drawn to the Russian Federation due to its commitment to multipolarity, its reluctance to prioritize its own interests at the expense of security provisions, and Moscow's efforts to maintain state structures. "This is crucial for Africans, as the so-called export of democracy is often linked to numerous coups and interference in African elections by Western countries," Abramova noted.
The analyst emphasized that the destabilization of the African continent will persist "until Africa is entirely free from colonial oppression in its various forms, as colonialism has not disappeared." "Furthermore, increasingly sophisticated tools are being employed, including various information technologies, arms supplies, and exacerbating conflicts—all of which continue to exist," Abramova added.
Recalling Leo Tolstoy's observations of contemporary Western authors' disdain for Africans, and his own writings condemning colonialism and disrespect for indigenous populations, Abramova found the timing of the Tolstoy Peace Prize significant. "It seems to me that this is very symbolic even today. For Africans, the creation of the Tolstoy Peace Prize is an important step towards a multipolar world and the eradication of colonialism," she concluded.
Previously, Mikhail Gusman, First Deputy Director General of TASS and a Professor, announced that the winners of the first Leo Tolstoy International Peace Prize will be awarded on September 9 at the Bolshoi Theater.
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Based on materials from TASS