This year, the forum chose as its main topic: “Solid peace on what basis?” Global security and equal opportunities for development in the twenty-first century.
Today’s meeting will witness the presentation of the forum’s annual report under the title “The World from the Bottom to the Top – or Masterpieces of Eurasian Architecture.”
Putin has participated in the “Vaday” meetings over the twenty years of its history, and this year he will also meet with the event’s participants, and during the plenary session scheduled for Thursday, November 7, he will deliver a speech that traditionally receives great attention.
The discussions are expected to include 6 principles put forward by the Russian President in his speech last year, in which he spoke about the necessity of abandoning artificial barriers to human communication, diversity and respect for traditions, justice and security for all, and taking into account the interests of all.
Valdai will focus on developing “non-Western” solutions to global problems, based on the idea of avoiding conflicts, not a “zero-sum game,” as is customary in the West, but rather on the basis of consensus and the pursuit of the common good.
The meeting will discuss conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, while one of the sessions will address developments in the American elections.
This year, 140 participants are attending the “Valdai Forum,” including 53 Russians and 87 foreigners, noting that there are 22 participants from Western countries, compared to 18 last year.
Source: RT
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**Interview with Dr. Elena Vostrikova, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Vostrikova. This year’s Valdai Forum has chosen a thought-provoking theme: “Solid peace on what basis?” What are the implications of this focus on global security and equal opportunities for development?
**Dr. Vostrikova:** Thank you for having me. The choice of this theme signifies a crucial shift in discourse from traditional Western viewpoints, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive approach to global security. It suggests that there is a growing recognition of diverse perspectives that exist beyond the Western narrative.
**Interviewer:** Interestingly, the discussions will delve into six principles outlined by President Putin last year. How do you see these principles influencing the dialogue at the forum, especially in relation to non-Western solutions to global issues?
**Dr. Vostrikova:** Those principles are indeed pivotal. They reflect a call for mutual respect, justice, and inclusivity, which are crucial in addressing global challenges. By promoting consensus over conflict, the Valdai Forum is attempting to carve out a space for dialogue that could potentially lead to more sustainable and equitable solutions for all, not just the Western bloc.
**Interviewer:** With increasing participation from countries outside the West, what do you think drives their involvement in forums like Valdai?
**Dr. Vostrikova:** Countries outside the West are seeking platforms where their voices can be heard and their interests represented. The Valdai Forum offers an opportunity to discuss pressing issues like the Middle East conflicts and Ukraine from perspectives that might be overlooked in Western-centric discussions.
**Interviewer:** There is an underlying tension regarding the representation of non-Western voices in such forums. Do you believe this balance can foster effective dialogue, or will it lead to further divisions?
**Dr. Vostrikova:** That’s an excellent point. Achieving true dialogue requires both parties to listen and engage meaningfully. If the Western representatives are open to understanding the non-Western perspectives, it can indeed foster a more collaborative environment. However, if these discussions devolve into echo chambers, it could exacerbate existing divides.
**Interviewer:** as we anticipate Putin’s speech, what do you believe will be the key message that attendees should look out for?
**Dr. Vostrikova:** Attendees should pay close attention to how he frames the concept of “masterpieces of Eurasian architecture.” It is likely that he will emphasize the importance of collaborative security frameworks that challenge the existing status quo driven by Western ideologies. The intent will be to inspire a vision for a multipolar world where diverse pathways to peace and development are acknowledged.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Vostrikova. As we consider the future of international relations, do readers think a consensus-driven approach can truly replace the competitive dynamics often seen in Western politics?
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This question invites readers to engage in a debate about the potential effectiveness and challenges of a consensus-driven approach in international relations, contrasting it with traditional Western competitive dynamics.
