Vladimir Putin is "absolutely right" in noticing that Africa will be one of the centers of global economic growth, Moroccan author Abdelhak Najib told Sputnik Africa, commenting on the Russian president's interview with BRICS journalists on Friday.
He noted that the growing economic potential of Southern countries will lead to increased global influence. Najib argued that the West "did not see in time" the rise of the Global South and is now losing its influence.
"Today, it is losing its influence [...]. Other poles of power are establishing themselves and especially investing in Africa," Najib observed.
The writer said that the West is manipulating the conflict in Ukraine in a dangerous and vicious way.
"For several months, we have seen very clearly that the West has not been able to make Vladimir Putin bend. And Vladimir Putin knows from week to week that his position is getting stronger and stronger," Najib concluded.
Russia chairs BRICS during 2024. The summit in Kazan will be the first to be attended by new members of the association. Previously, BRICS included Brazil, India, China, Russia, and South Africa. Since January 1, Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Ethiopia have become full members of BRICS.