Africa is Forming Key Part of Russia's Alliance Strategy, Says SA Scholar
Africa is Forming Key Part of Russia's Alliance Strategy, Says SA Scholar
Dr. Oscar van Heerden, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, explained that Russia’s use of Syrian military bases for aid distribution is a significant move to strengthen its ties with Africa.
In an interview with Sputnik Africa, he emphasized that this is not a new idea but a strategic shift, with Russia utilizing existing ports and airbases to create a direct logistical route into Africa.
“Russia has seen the strategic importance of the air bases in Syria, as well as the harbor in Syria… it’s always been a very strategic hub geostrategically for Russia.”
This approach enhances Russia's influence in the region, not just through aid, but also military assistance, fostering closer cooperation with African nations, Van Heerden noted.
He believes that African countries, recognizing the changing global landscape, are seeking fresh alliances beyond the West.
“African countries are beginning to realize that they need to have new allies, new friends, have new security arrangements.”
Unlike the extractive relationships of Europe, Russia and China are engaging with Africa on more equal terms, fostering deeper, mutually beneficial partnerships, the scholar noted.
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