Russia is not isolated – global symposium (WATCH)

Participants of an international forum about the future have told RT that the sanctions on Moscow are futile

The ‘Inventing the Future’ international symposium that took place in Moscow this week illustrates just how ineffective the West’s attempts to isolate Russia have been, attendees have told RT.  

Scientists, futurists, government officials, and businessmen from over 100 countries gathered at the Russia National Center to discuss scenarios for future global development, including ethical and philosophical challenges.   

Speaking at a panel discussion, former Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl said that there has been a rebalancing in the world order to the point where signs of true multipolarity are clearly visible.  

“I have seen over the last three years how the audience at some of the biggest conferences has changed,” Kneissl noted.   

“Three years ago you would hear German and English because it was all about German, British and American investments here and at the St. Petersburg forum. Now it’s many more languages. It’s Spanish, it’s Arabic, it’s French from colleagues from the African continent.”  

Attended by more than 3,000 participants, the event included delegations from BRICS member states, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and various regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, according to the organizers.  

Kivanc Ulusoy, Professor of Political Science at Istanbul University, told RT that such events reflect the futility of the West’s efforts to isolate Russia, proving that the policy of sanctions does not pay off because the country is “an important regional partner” to many.  

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The symposium brought together scientists, philosophers, futurists, popular sci-fi writers, and representatives from business and creative industries.  

Amitabha Chatterjee, an independent film director from India, told RT that closer interaction among people should shape the image of the future.  

“I don’t think restrictions or sanctions actually work. As individuals, in 2024, we have to think about humanity and work closely with each other,” Chatterjee said.  

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a greeting to the participants of the forum, saying the future must be determined “based on a sovereign worldview, national culture, tireless creative exploration, and a firm commitment to indisputable moral and patriotic ideals and values.” Then, he said, “the boldest and most daring dreams will surely come true.”  

The symposium featured more than 60 events categorized into several themes, including ‘Future of Humanity’, ‘Future of Technology’, ‘Future of a Multipolar World’, and ‘Future of Civilizations’.  

In addition to various panel discussions, the symposium featured several major exhibitions. One showcased innovations and future plans, such as a Russian-Chinese project to establish a research station on the Moon, with plans to launch a nuclear power plant into outer space by 2035.