On June 6, the session “Trusted Digital Partners: Russia and the World” was held during the Global Digital Forum in Nizhny Novgorod, supported by the Center for Global IT Cooperation. The discussion focused on strategic development of IT infrastructure, national digital sovereignty, and attracting IT talent in the countries of the Global South. At the core of the conversation was the creation of equal and long-term partnerships with Russia based on trust, mutual benefit, and respect for national characteristics.
The session was moderated by Dmitry Fofanov, Digital Attaché of the Russian Trade Mission in the Republic of Cuba. Speakers included representatives from Russia, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, such as Naima Díaz (Nicaragua), Abdelouaheb Ghoa (Algeria), and Paul Lalovich (Singapore).
From the Russian side, Vadim Glushchenko, Director of the Center for Global IT Cooperation, took part in the session. He emphasized the growing global demand for Russian digital solutions, particularly in regions where governments are driving digital transformation themselves.
“Countries of the Global South are actively seeking digital solutions — especially those that support sovereign development. We offer more than just technology; we provide a systematic approach — experience in digitalization, localization to meet national needs, and support at every stage. The goal is to build autonomous digital ecosystems, free from dependency on Western standards. That’s the essence of true sovereignty — digital, technological, and political,” Glushchenko stated.
Speakers agreed that countries in the Global South don’t merely need ready-made technologies, but rather the development of resilient IT ecosystems. In this context, Russia offers unique experience — from platform-based IT products and government digital services to proven infrastructure solutions.
Particular attention was paid to workforce development, technology localization, and collaborative research projects. Participants supported the idea of establishing international working groups and highlighted the importance of platforms like the Global Digital Forum in fostering direct dialogue between governments and businesses.
A recurring theme was the need for a unified, equitable digital agenda. Speakers agreed that strategic cooperation on issues such as digital sovereignty, secure communications, and data protection can become the foundation for a new model of international engagement in the digital domain.
Dmitry Fofanov noted:
“The rapid transformation of the global digital landscape is drawing all nations into the process. Technology transfer is not only reshaping the global economy, but also strengthening international collaboration. Approaches to high-tech exports and the pursuit of sovereign IT solutions — grounded in global cooperation and cultural sensitivity — are becoming a key trend in Russia’s import substitution strategy. In this context, digital attachés are playing an increasingly prominent role in advancing Russian technologies and building industrial cooperation with foreign markets.”
The session was part of a broader strategic agenda aimed at strengthening Russia’s digital sovereignty and boosting the country’s IT export potential. The Center for Global IT Cooperation is planning to launch new joint initiatives with partner countries focused on smart cities, sustainable infrastructure, and the development of digital talent hubs.
The session was moderated by Dmitry Fofanov, Digital Attaché of the Russian Trade Mission in the Republic of Cuba. Speakers included representatives from Russia, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, such as Naima Díaz (Nicaragua), Abdelouaheb Ghoa (Algeria), and Paul Lalovich (Singapore).
From the Russian side, Vadim Glushchenko, Director of the Center for Global IT Cooperation, took part in the session. He emphasized the growing global demand for Russian digital solutions, particularly in regions where governments are driving digital transformation themselves.
“Countries of the Global South are actively seeking digital solutions — especially those that support sovereign development. We offer more than just technology; we provide a systematic approach — experience in digitalization, localization to meet national needs, and support at every stage. The goal is to build autonomous digital ecosystems, free from dependency on Western standards. That’s the essence of true sovereignty — digital, technological, and political,” Glushchenko stated.
Speakers agreed that countries in the Global South don’t merely need ready-made technologies, but rather the development of resilient IT ecosystems. In this context, Russia offers unique experience — from platform-based IT products and government digital services to proven infrastructure solutions.
Particular attention was paid to workforce development, technology localization, and collaborative research projects. Participants supported the idea of establishing international working groups and highlighted the importance of platforms like the Global Digital Forum in fostering direct dialogue between governments and businesses.
A recurring theme was the need for a unified, equitable digital agenda. Speakers agreed that strategic cooperation on issues such as digital sovereignty, secure communications, and data protection can become the foundation for a new model of international engagement in the digital domain.
Dmitry Fofanov noted:
“The rapid transformation of the global digital landscape is drawing all nations into the process. Technology transfer is not only reshaping the global economy, but also strengthening international collaboration. Approaches to high-tech exports and the pursuit of sovereign IT solutions — grounded in global cooperation and cultural sensitivity — are becoming a key trend in Russia’s import substitution strategy. In this context, digital attachés are playing an increasingly prominent role in advancing Russian technologies and building industrial cooperation with foreign markets.”
The session was part of a broader strategic agenda aimed at strengthening Russia’s digital sovereignty and boosting the country’s IT export potential. The Center for Global IT Cooperation is planning to launch new joint initiatives with partner countries focused on smart cities, sustainable infrastructure, and the development of digital talent hubs.
