The upcoming joint declaration by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping on building a multipolar world order and new-type international relations is not an isolated political gesture.
It symbolises the deepening convergence of the China–Russia comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in the new era.
Amid profound shifts in the global landscape, this visit highlights the shared commitment of both countries to advancing peaceful and equitable changes to the international order.
For the Global South, especially Africa, this represents a historic opportunity to pursue greater autonomy and balanced development.
The multipolarity championed by China and Russia is not about bloc politics, but about sovereign equality, respect for civilisational diversity, and adherence to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
Both countries reject hegemonic and unilateral practices, and stand for inclusive and beneficial globalization. This offers Global South countries a multilateral alternative with fewer political conditions.
China and Russia have made notable progress in diversifying trade settlements and reducing risks in the international financial system.
Wider use of local currencies and alternative payment mechanisms helps countries lower exchange-rate risks and enhance economic resilience, which is particularly valuable for African economies with fragile foreign exchange reserves.
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The Power of Siberia 2 pipeline project will further strengthen energy security and market stability.
It helps promote diversified and stable energy supplies, providing more options for Global South countries to safeguard energy security.
Africa is a key partner in the vision of a multipolar world.
As Russia elevates its diplomatic engagement with Africa and China deepens mutually beneficial cooperation under the principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, South–South cooperation continues to grow.
Africa’s goal is not to replace one external partner with another, but to achieve independent and sustainable development. The key is to expand win-win cooperation while upholding strategic autonomy and policy space.
China–Russia strategic coordination has become a constructive force for global stability and development, providing practical options for the Global South in economic security, connectivity, and diversified financial cooperation.
China and Russia respect the independent choices of developing countries, and their coordination is not targeted at any third party.
African countries should seize this historic opportunity through flexible and diversified diplomacy.
By upholding sovereignty and governance autonomy, and making good use of cooperation in infrastructure, energy transition, digital economy and industrial capacity building, Africa can achieve genuine strategic autonomy and long-term prosperity.
*Saxon Zvina is a principal consultant at Skyworld Consultancy Services and a member of the BRI Think Tank. Email [email protected] and X @saxonzvina2
