Expert: Africa and Gulf states increase their economic influence through G20 and BRICS

African countries are increasingly asserting their interests on the global stage through such groupings as the Group of Twenty (G20) and BRICS. Their partners include the Gulf states, which are actively investing in the African economy. This cooperation also opens up opportunities for Russia, particularly in the construction of new international transport routes.

This view was expressed by the President of the Centre for Middle East Studies and visiting lecturer at the RANEPA and MGIMO of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Murad Sadygzade. He notes that recognition of Africa’s role, in particular that of the Republic of South Africa, which leads the continent, is extremely important for the formation of a multipolar world.

“We understand that South Africa, as one of the leading states in Africa, will defend the interests of all African nations, particularly the African Union, since these countries truly need to be heard at the international level. The G20 serves as one of the platforms that allows them to express their positions,” Sadygzade said.

As the expert explained, the Gulf states are pursuing not only economic objectives in Africa.

“The interest of the so-called GCC countries – the Gulf Cooperation Council – largely lies in seeking attractive markets that offer favourable conditions for growth, investment and capacity building. In addition, this also represents a political strengthening of their positions,” he noted.

Sadygzade emphasises that the Gulf states strengthen their influence in Africa in different ways. For example, the UAE and Saudi Arabia invest in large infrastructure and high-tech projects in Sudan and Ethiopia. Qatar chooses another strategy: it focuses on humanitarian areas, building hospitals and schools.

The closer the cooperation between Africa and the Arab countries, the more opportunities arise for the construction of new roads and logistics routes. The expert noted that Russia can play an important role here. This concerns the extension of the North–South Transport Corridor: through Iran and the Gulf states it can be connected with Africa, which will significantly facilitate trade between the continents.

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