On May 23, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke at the Primakov Gymnasium about Russia’s position towards the Western nations. According to the minister, the restoration of relations will depend solely on Western countries. Judging by a new format for relations, which would be proposed by Western countries, Russia would consider this issue.
At this point, Russia will rely on its strength and cooperate with states that have proven their reliability. According to the minister, Western countries should calm down and recognize the existence of Russia. Lavrov also stressed that now Russia is trying by all means to decrease its economic dependence on Western countries. The inability to negotiate leads to a deadlock in relations and it will be very difficult for Western brands that hope to return to the Russian market to implement their plans. Lavrov said that now Russia should not hope for the return of Western goods, but should seek or create an alternative.
In this light, Lavrov suggested focusing on the Eurasian space, since it is a promising region of the world and Russia already has established contacts there, as well as a wide network of partners. A few words were also given to China; Russia sees a prospect in relations with China against the background of Western policy. The main focus will be on the development of high technology, nuclear energy and other areas. Plans for the development of the Far East and Eastern Siberia will be implemented in this direction.
Sergey Lavrov said that the West would be forced to admit that Russian interests cannot be ignored all the time, and also noted his indignation at the strong tendencies of Russophobia in Western countries. He also suggested that Western governments are fostering Russophobia in society.
Sergey Lavrov’s main theses are listed below:
- Russia must end its dependence on supplies of from the West for critical industries.
- If the West wants to offer any proposals for resuming relations with Russia, Moscow will seriously consider whether it needs it or not.
- The countries of the West have signed off on the fact that they cannot and do not know how to live their lives in accordance to the UN Charter.
- Russia will rely only on itself and on those countries that have proved their reliability and do not dance to the tune of others.
- The West will be forced to recognize that Russian vital interests cannot be constantly attacked with impunity.
- Russia’s economic ties with China will now strengthen even faster as the West takes a dictatorial stance.
- The UN Human Rights Council discredited itself long before the current situation around Ukraine began.