Abstract: The relevance of the study is due to the rapid development of bilateral political and economic relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China in the context of modern international conjuncture, the rise of a direct and proxy confrontation between the states of the collective West and the countries of the global South, to which Russia and the PRC can be attributed. Moreover, it is worth mentioning the influence of the most important and current foreign political event of recent years: the beginning of a special military operation of the Russian Federation in Ukraine, which is the driver of bilateral relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China. The object of study is the bilateral relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China. The subject of study is the strategic partnership between China and Russia in the context of the modern international environment. The main task is to identify the key reasons for the rapid development of bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China after the activation of the Ukrainian crisis in 2013. This work is based on the power transition theory which concretises the process of global leadership transition from one state to another. The scientific novelty of this study is based on the definition of the Ukrainian crisis, which began in 2013, as the main driver of development of bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China. Moreover, the author has identified the most pressing problems of bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China, to which can be attributed the imbalance of political and economic cooperation, trade imbalance by groups of exported goods and technological dependence of Russia on the PRC.

Keywords: Crisis, Sanctions, Technologies, Trade, Power transition, USA, Ukraine, China, Russia, PRC

Abstract: Abstract: This paper provides an in-depth exploration of the shift and development of Russia's foreign policy towards Africa over the decade from 2014 to 2024. By integrating the frameworks of structural realism and power transition theory, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of the motivations behind Russia's adjustments to its global strategy in response to Western sanctions, with a particular focus on economic, political, and security considerations demonstrated through its diplomatic engagements with African countries. The research reveals that, confronted by U.S. and European sanctions as well as growing international isolation, Russia gradually redirected its diplomatic efforts towards Africa in an attempt to bolster its influence in the evolving global power structure. Through strengthening its economic partnerships, enhancing military cooperation, and building political alliances with African nations, Russia has not only alleviated its isolated position within the Western-dominated international system but has also contributed to advancing the process of global multipolarity. This paper further evaluates both the achievements and the ongoing challenges in the development of Russia-Africa relations over this period, shedding light on key areas such as trade, security collaboration, and political discourse. Additionally, the paper looks forward to potential future developments in this geopolitical relationship, identifying key trends and obstacles that are likely to shape the direction of Russian foreign policy towards Africa in the coming years. Overall, this research offers a novel theoretical perspective that enriches the understanding of strategic decision-making within the global system, while also contributing to broader studies of great power competition, diplomatic realignment, and the transformation of foreign policy strategies in an increasingly multipolar world.

Keywords: Regional cooperation, Great power competition, US and European sanctions, multipolarization, power transition theory, structural realism, African diplomacy, Russian foreign policy, international relations, Russia-Africa relations

Abstract: In modern international politics, not only the image of political figures is becoming increasingly important, but also the perception of nation states in the international arena. The emergence and active participation of new actors in world politics has increased the role of soft power as an impact strategy for governments that seek to strengthen their positions.  This article examines the role of soft power and public diplomacy in shaping or creating a country's image. Using cultural elements and public diplomacy, States set themselves the goal of creating an attractive image in the minds of the population of another State. Effective initiatives in the field of public diplomacy not only strengthen the country's soft power and influence, but also contribute to building strong relations and strengthening interstate cooperation. Structural and functional, discourse analysis, institutional, and systemic approaches were used to study soft power and public diplomacy. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the systematization and comparison of approaches to defining the concept of soft power and public diplomacy, as well as the components and forms of implementation of soft power by foreign researchers. Special attention is also paid to cultural peculiarities and the unique perception of the image of states. The author came to the following conclusions: soft power is an alternative to military and economic force. Successful implementation of soft power contributes to the formation of a positive image, which in the long term seems to be more effective and sustainable than traditional methods of influence. Soft power and public diplomacy are becoming not only tools for creating a country's image, but also an important part of its foreign policy, contributing to even greater support from the international community to strengthen its position on the world stage.

Keywords: globalization, global presence, international cooperation, foreign policy, strategic communication, cultural exchange, national Image, Joseph Nye, public Diplomacy, Soft power

Abstract: The article examines the changes in relations between France and Mali against the background of political crises and changes in internal strategy ("Mali Kura"). The author analyzes how the new Mali Kura policy undermines the traditional model of Franco-Malian relations, previously based on Mali's economic and military dependence on France. The consequences of the withdrawal of French troops and Mali's growing ties with other external players such as Russia and China are discussed. Special attention is paid to the need to review France's strategy in the region in the context of new realities, including the transition to economic and cultural cooperation. The author used a historical method to analyze the origin and development of the term "Francafrica" and its impact on the political situation in Mali. Content analysis was applied to study political speeches, official statements and public sentiment related to the concept of "Mali Kura" in order to identify the key ideas and motives behind the change in French-Malian relations. For the first time, the study comprehensively analyzes the transformation of the concept of "Francafrica" in the context of the formation of an independent political identity of Mali and changes in its foreign policy course. Unlike previous studies focused mainly on the economic aspects of Franco-African relations, this work reveals the impact of the Mali Kura political program on the political and cultural gap with France. Special attention is paid to the analysis of Mali's new international alliances with Russia, Turkey and China, their impact on the system of francocentric elites and on the dynamics of Mali's relations with the former metropolis. This research contributes to the expansion of theoretical knowledge about the mechanisms of decolonization and political emancipation of African countries. The emergence of the concept of "Mali Kura" in political rhetoric, especially during the period of opposition to the power of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and after the coming to power of Assimi Goit and Prime Minister Shogel Kokalla Maiga, marked a new stage in the development of relations between the two countries.

Keywords: Troops withdrawal, external powers, Sovereignty, Russia, China, Political crisis, Mali Koura, Francafrique, Mali, France

Abstract: This research examines the implications of Africa’s recent inclusion in the Group of 20 (G20) on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its liberalized markets agenda. With the AU joining the G20 in 2023, there is potential for economic growth and investment through trade partnerships. The AfCFTA, launched in 2018, aims to integrate African markets by reducing tariffs and fostering free movement of goods, services, and capital to achieve economic transformation. This study explores the alignment between the G20’s global trade framework, governed primarily by WTO principles, and the AfCFTA’s regional trade objectives. Key areas of analysis include trade policies, regulatory standards, dispute settlement mechanisms, and Africa’s role in global economic governance. The study finds that while G20 membership offers Africa greater influence in global trade discussions, it also presents potential conflicts, particularly in areas such as tariff regulations, environmental standards, and trade preferences. The research concludes that Africa must strategically engage in G20 forums to ensure that its AfCFTA goals are not compromised, and calls for structural reforms to boost competitiveness and human capital development across the continent. The researcher depended on official sources like institutions, journals and resources from academic sources like Google Scholar. For analysis of AfCFTA, the treaty establishing AfCFTA is reviewed together with articles to conclude. There are 6 separate protocols as part of the AfCFTA. They are ‘The Protocol on Trade in Goods’, ‘The Protocol on Trade in Services’, ‘The Protocol on Rules & Procedure on the settlement of disputes’, ‘The Protocol Investment’, ‘The Protocol on Intellectual Property Rights’ and ‘The Protocol Competition Policy’. This work studies the Protocols on Trade in Good and Trade in Services together with the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area for its analysis.

Keywords: Debt Relief, Infrastructure, Trade Facilitation, Global Trade, Economic Development, Africa's Voice, AfCFTA, Multilateral diplomacy, Supply Chains, Sustainable Development

Abstract: The relevance of this study is due to, first, the strengthening of cooperation between the Russian Federation and African states against the background of the deterioration of Russia’s relations with European and North American states; second, the change in the foreign policy of the Russian Federation since the collapse of the USSR towards African states; third, the increased interest of leading states (PRC, France, United Kingdom, USA) in the African continent due to certain factors: rapid population growth in Africa, rare-earth natural resources, good geographical location. The object of this study is the bilateral relations between Russia and Madagascar.The subject of this study is the Republic of Madagascar in the context of the foreign policy interests of the Russian Federation on the African continent. The main purpose of the study is to determine the place of the Republic of Madagascar in the foreign policy of the Russian Federation. This scientific article is based on the theory of political realism, which implies that states are fighting for their own national interests. During the research the author used the following scientific methods: content analysis, mediametry analysis, chronological, statistical. The scientific novelty of the study is due to the the identification of features of transformation of foreign policy course of the Russian Federation in relation to African states since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Moreover, the author notes the peripherality of the Republic of Madagascar in the current foreign policy course of the Russian Federation towards African States. The main conclusions of the study conducted are the determination of a significant gap between the level of economic cooperation and political and cultural-humanitarian; characterization of changes in the foreign policy of Russia towards African states since 1993; the non-priority status of Madagascar in the foreign policy of Russia.

Keywords: Prospects, Cultural-humanitarian, Economical, Political, USSR, Cooperation, Madagascar, Russia, Scattered Islands, Trade

Abstract: The subject of the study is trade and economic cooperation between the Eurasian Economic Union and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The object of the study is the economic relations between the EAEU and Iran in the context of the development of regional integration and geopolitical changes. The author examines in detail such aspects of the topic as the dynamics of trade turnover between the EAEU countries and Iran, the structure of exports and imports, the regulatory framework for cooperation, including the 2018 Interim Free Trade Area Agreement and the new permanent Agreement ratified in 2024. The research methodology is based on the principles of historical objectivity and systematicity, using general scientific methods of systemic, dialectical and comparative analysis, as well as special legal, political science and historical methods. The scientific novelty of the work lies in a comprehensive analysis of not only the economic, but also the political aspects of cooperation between the EAEU and Iran, as well as in identifying key problems hindering the development of trade relations. The main conclusions of the study are: a significant increase in trade turnover between the EAEU and Iran in recent years, despite external economic challenges; the strategic importance of deepening economic cooperation for all participants; the need to further improve the institutional and infrastructural base of interaction. The novelty of the research lies in identifying the key problems of the development of trade relations and proposing specific ways to solve them, taking into account the latest geopolitical and economic trends. The author concludes that despite the existing barriers, cooperation between the EAEU and Iran has significant potential for growth, especially in the fields of energy, transport logistics and the digital economy.

Keywords: PTA, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Russia, Iran, EAEU, Economy, Trade, Geopolitics, Cooperation

Abstract: This study focuses on the new migration policy of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). The research aims to identify the migration strategy introduced by Olaf Scholz and the ruling "traffic light" coalition for the pan-European asylum system. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the multilevel governance theory, which employs three levels of analysis: national, supranational, and subregional. The authors conducted a comparative analysis of Germany's national migration policy, followed by its application at the EU's integration level and within the subregional context. The African region was selected as a subregional case study due to the high percentage of migrants arriving from this area. The novelty of the research lies in its analysis of changes in Germany's migration policy, which came into effect in 2023–2024, using an unconventional integration theory to substantiate shifts in the country's foreign policy course. The research findings are presented at each individual level. At the national level, the authors identified key changes in Germany's migration policy and, more importantly, examined the attitudes within the country's political establishment toward these changes. At the supranational level, conclusions were drawn regarding the influence of Germany's new approach on the pan-European asylum policy. Finally, at the subregional level, the study assessed the impact of these processes on the African region, which significantly contributes to the growing number of migrants in the EU. The results have both theoretical and practical applications. The research demonstrated the efficacy of the methodological toolkit provided by multilevel governance theory and established a connection between changes in Germany's migration policy and the pan-European strategy.

Keywords: disintegration processes, multi-level governance theory, African migration, CEAS, European Union, EU, German ruling coalition, FRG, Federal Republic of Germany, migration policy

Abstract: The relevance of the research topic is determined by the importance of understanding contemporary Chinese foreign policy approaches in the context of China's rapidly growing role in global governance and attempts to reshape the international order based on civilizational pluralism and true multilateralism. The Global Civilization Initiative is an important element of China's contemporary approach to transforming global governance, relying on non-powerful, humanitarian interaction-oriented approaches in the context of geopolitical turbulence and fragmentation. The subject of the study is the historical and cultural foundations of the Global Civilization Initiative and the main obstacles to its implementation. The theoretical basis of the study is the approaches of the constructivist school of thought, supplemented by the theoretical framework of moral realism. The scientific novelty of the study is provided by a balanced approach to the choice of methodology and sources demonstrating Chinese and Western approaches to the analysis of the PRC's GCI. The author draws conclusions about the significant role of the Global Civilization Initiative in the PRC's foreign policy in the context of global transformations in the international system. The ideas of Confucianism and Taoism embodied in the works of Chinese philosophers and transformed into modern concepts by contemporary Chinese theorists serve as a value base for this concept. An important distinction of such a normative framework is its focus on achieving common harmony through cooperation and mutual respect. The main obstacle to the realization of this initiative is the opposition of the U.S., which is increasing with the growing tensions between the two countries and China's “rise” . China in this case emphasizes the moral component of international relations, offering other countries a new model of coexistence and cooperation for common development.

Keywords: UN, global governance, culture, Africa, BRI, international system, international development, civilization, USA, China

Abstract: This article explores the key aspects, challenges and problems of the UN and the OIF cooperation in the field of peace and security from 1998 to 2024. Based on the theory of regional security complexes, the article analyzes the model of interaction between the United Nations Organization (UN) and the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF) in the context of ensuring peace and stability on the African continent, as well as the national interests of the participating countries. This article also assesses the challenges and problems of cooperation in countering extremism and terrorism, as well as peacekeeping on the African continent and considers future prospects. The study uses institutional, historical, statistical, analytical methods to examine the practical aspects of interaction between the organizations. The theory of regional security complexes explains the strategic behavior of the UN and the OIF member states in the face of new challenges and threats to security in Africa and the changing global balance of power. It provides a new theoretical perspective for understanding not only the strategic choices of the formats of countries' participation in the global peace and security system, but contributes to the research of securitization and international security processes. The author has identified the most pressing problems of cooperation between the UN and the OIF in peace and security, which include strategic, financial, political, linguistic and logistical obstacles.

Keywords: Terrorism, Peacekeeping, Peace and Security, Africa, OIF, UN, Cooperation, International Relations, Extremism, Strategic Interests

Abstract: The article is devoted to the study of the influence of institutions of consociative democracy on the processes of pacification and democratization in post-conflict societies. The introductory part defines two approaches to the study of consociative democracy: the first, which recommends consociative democracy as a desirable democratic model for deeply divided societies, and the second, which considers consociation solely as a successful conflict management mechanism without democracy. This article also analyzes the possibility of implementing consociative democracy in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a vivid example of a post-conflict state, where even 30 years after the civil war, disorder and fear of a re-outbreak of interethnic conflict prevail. In this paper, the author tried to explain the reasons that make it difficult to apply consociative democracy in the Balkans in general and in Bosnia and Herzegovina in particular. The research is based on the methodology of A. Leiphart, which is based on a comparative analysis of empirical studies of the experience of political development in a number of states. The methodology is based on a systematic approach, which allows us to consider the object of research as an integral set of elements, as well as a cultural approach that helps to understand the specifics of the interaction of various segments of society in the state chosen for analysis. The novelty of the research lies in a special approach to the study of consociative democracy, which focuses more on the successful establishment of peace in post-conflict societies, rather than on the establishment of democracy in these territories. The author uses the model of A. Leiphart, which assumes consociative democracy as a political model with segmental pluralism, which includes many grounds for dividing people into representatives of certain groups in multi-component societies. Such differences may be religious, linguistic, racial, ethnic, or regional in nature. The main conclusions of this study are the theses that the main function of consociative institutions in post-conflict societies is to prevent the recurrence of violence, not to build democracy. Also, an analysis of the implementation of consociative democracy in Bosnia and Herzegovina shows that the theoretical doctrines of consociation are not easy to apply in practice in the conflict societies of post-Yugoslav states.

Keywords: Western Balkans, post-Yugoslav states, civil war, failed state, democracy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, democratization, stability, post-conflict society, consociational democracy

Abstract: The fuel and energy complex plays one of the main roles in the economy of any state. The provision of energy resources and the independence of the energy industry in the technological issue are also key elements of the country's national security system. In the context of dynamic global changes in the system of international relations affecting the energy sector, the state should clearly define priorities and directions for the development of energy policy. The correct identification of possible challenges and threats, an objective assessment of the state and analysis of market conditions will allow to adequately respond and adapt to the current situation, which in turn will contribute to sustainable socio-economic development. After 2022, Russia once again faced the need to adjust the course of energy development, given Russia's special place in the system of international energy security. Large-scale sanctions pressure, the redrawing of the supply geography and changes in relations with once traditional partners create the need to define new goals and objectives for the development of the industry, especially given the international situation. The study conducted a comparative analysis of official documents – different versions of Russia's Energy Strategy. Thus, the methodological basis of the research was made up of general scientific, historical and other methods used in such studies: in particular, the method of systematic and critical analysis, content analysis, etc. As part of the research, the article provides a comparative analysis of the main provisions concerning Russia's foreign energy policy, the factors influencing it, as well as key priorities and directions for the development of the fuel and energy sector, described in each version of the Russian Energy Strategy as a fundamental document in the field of energy policy regulation. The author formulates the main conclusions on the analysis of the key provisions of various versions of the strategic document, noting their inherent continuity in the field of Russia's foreign energy policy. The conclusion is drawn about a serious transformation over more than 20 years of state energy policy in terms of strategic planning for the development of the energy industry and, in particular, its international aspect. The key priorities are highlighted, and some features of their compilation are outlined.

Keywords: evolution of state policy, energy markets, foreign policy, state regulation, fuel and energy complex, development priorities, strategic planning, energy, Russia, Energy strategy

Abstract: The object of the scientific article is the formation of the US intelligence agency. The subject of the study is the factors that served as the starting point for the creation of the Central Intelligence Agency as a strategic and analytical center within the framework of ensuring national security and a foreign policy instrument in the context of the formation of a bipolar system of international relations. The author examines in detail the evolution of the US intelligence agencies, the historical context of World War II, the disagreements of Joseph Stalin, Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt, and later Harry Truman on the post-war world order, as well as the paradigm of realism as the dominant view in American academic and political circles on international relations. Special attention is paid to the place and importance of the CIA in the formation of the US national security system, as well as the position of the political establishment on this issue.   The historical-genetic method allows us to trace the historical conditions and stages of the development of the intelligence structure in the relationship, as well as the idea of the need for such an institution at the beginning of the Cold War. The narrative method describes the history of the development of the US intelligence agencies, which led to the formation of an important foreign policy institution with broad powers to carry out state tasks. The scientific novelty of this work lies in the position that the creation of the CIA was dictated by socio-political views on the situation in the world in a certain historical period. This is reflected in the views of academic and political circles regarding US foreign policy activities. As part of the institutional reform carried out in accordance with the adopted Law on National Security, the organization was an integral and key part of the "conservative U-turn". In fact, the intelligence structure is the embodiment of the realist paradigm of international relations. The high secrecy and broad powers of the intelligence agency have formed the basis for conducting secret political activities. It has become a strategic center for the administration of covert politics, bypassing democratic principles. In turn, this consolidated the reliance on the use of force, including covert force, as the basis of American foreign policy pursuing national interests within the bipolar system of the world. The CIA became an institution whose activities were aimed at containing the USSR in the conditions of the outbreak of the Cold War.

Keywords: Truman, Stalin, NSC, Roosevelt, CIA, National Security Act, Cold War, Churchill, intelligence, USA

Abstract: The article examines the political and economic meaning of the Chinese Belt and Road initiative, which is aimed at expanding China's economic and, as a result, political influence through the expansion of infrastructural and trade ties. Vietnam is a key strategic partner of China in the Southeast Asian region, a direct neighbor and one of the main beneficiaries of the Chinese initiative at this stage. However, the article emphasizes the duality of such interaction: Vietnam is in danger of becoming unconditionally dependent on China, which Vietnam seeks to avoid. Vietnam sees its partial support in diversifying the areas of cooperation. The authors of the article believe that this aspiration can be used by Russia to strengthen its own positions, both directly with Vietnam and with the entire region of Southeast Asia. The authors used qualitative and comparative analysis of sources, content analysis of data to determine trends; synthesis and historical-descriptive methods for a comprehensive presentation of the subject of research. The main conclusions of this article are the inevitability of economic cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road of Vietnam and China. Geographical proximity and diverse contacts force Vietnam and China to interaction. The comprehensive analysis shows that the Belt and Road still raises many questions and suspicions from various participants, including Russia. However, for Russia, this may be a chance to expand economic cooperation with Vietnam, even despite the sanctions pressure. The article can serve as a basis for further comprehensive research of the factors influencing Russian-Vietnamese relations in particular, and the structure of multilateral cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road, in general. The Belt and Road has laid the foundation for the expansion of China's economic and political expansion, and there is still no clear understanding of how other players on the world stage will react.

Keywords: sanctions, economic relations, ASEAN, Belt and Road, Asia, Vietnam-China relations, Vietnamese-Russian relations, Russia, China, Vietnam