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Russia Turns to Africa for Trade Amid US, EU Sanctions

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As United States and European sanctions broaden due to special military operation, largely directed at demilitarization and denazification in Ukraine, Russians are now diversifying both exports and imports in Africa’s direction. After the first summit held 2019 in Sochi where a mountain of pledges incorporated in a joint declaration, but have not been given serious attention as expected.

Russia and Ukraine share common border, both are former Soviet republics struggling to move unto the global stage. Russia was angered because Ukraine’s ambition to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union. With the conflict that began February 24, and amid Western and European sanctions, Russia plans to expand its network of trade missions in Africa, according to Vladimir Padalko, Vice President of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The meeting held March 4 at the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry building was really to re-examine how import-export trade be intensified and map out possible support for Russian enterprises and organizations in entering the African market, in practical terms, for mutually beneficial support and benefits in the light of Russia-Ukraine crisis. State support and business facilitation have been on the agenda these several years, and was exhaustively discussed during a panel session in Sochi.

“During the meeting, the participants voiced a proposal to expand the network of trade missions in Africa in the countries, which are priority for trade. It was agreed that the Industry and Trade Ministry would work on this issue together with the Foreign Ministry and the Economic Development Ministry,” Padalko said.

According to official reports, the popular Russian perception is that Africa is a promising market for Russia and information data obtained from the Industry and Trade Ministry, Russia has only four trade missions in Africa – in Morocco, Algeria, Egypt and South Africa. In addition, several interviews and research indicated that the Russian expert community advocates for strengthening business relations with Africa, and for example sees fruits, tea, coffee from the EU countries can be replaced with products from African countries.

Deputy Director of the Department of Asia, Africa and Latin America of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, Alexander Dianov, spoke about the non-financial support measures for Russian companies operating within the department.

On the other hand, he said: “There are trade missions only in four African countries, and if you take sub-Saharan African countries, the trade mission operates effectively only in South Africa. It is obvious that there is something to work on in terms of developing the infrastructure to support Russian businesses. If there is a serious request from the business community, we are ready to expand the geography of our presence.”

Senator Igor Morozov, Head of the Coordinating Committee on Economic Cooperation with Africa (AfroCom), business lobbying group established back in 2009, expressed his views posted to the website: “It is impossible to grow the national economy without developing new markets. Only more than 20 companies are working on raw materials projects in different parts of the continent, there are traditional deliveries through the military-technical cooperation, export of grain, mineral fertilizers, oil products with a total turnover of US$17 billion (2020)!”

Morozov argued that “it is necessary to involve large-scale involvement of small and medium-sized businesses from the Russian regions in the African direction. It is necessary to reconsider the entire range of the export potential of the regional economy: the transport industry, agricultural machinery and units, mechanical engineering and navigation equipment, the mining sector, water treatment, and information technology.”

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According to his interpretation, the geopolitical situation is rapidly changing and especially in such desperate condition of sanctions pressure, the outlook for new markets, new partners and allies are important for Russia. “This predetermines the return of Russia to Africa, makes this direction a priority both from the point of view of geopolitical influence, and in the trade and economic context. It is important for us to expand and improve competitive government support instruments for business. It is obvious that over the thirty years Russia left Africa. There are foreign players such as China, India, the United States and the European Union that have significantly increased their investment opportunities,” Morozov stressed.

Africa is one of the most promising and fastest-growing regions of the world, with leading powers actively competing with one another, the Senator further frankly acknowledged, and added that there is nothing surprising in the fact that the European Union is increasing its trade turnover with African countries, and it amounts to more than US$300 billion a year. For instance, the United States, implementing the Prosper Africa Programme, continues to push American investments and high-tech products to priority African markets.

In this regard, in order to promote Russian goods, it is necessary to create conditions that would be competitive for exporters. It is obvious that the Russian Export Center (REC) does not have a direct investment fund in the system of financing African projects. Successful practice in Africa clearly demonstrates the widespread use of such funds by China, India, France and many other players.

Russian Export Center says despite the emerging challenges the market is potentially the largest, Africa – is the continent of the future, but currently, the demand is generally limited. Speaking about Africa, there is the need to distinguish the countries of the continent into two groups: the northern and southern parts.

“We note an increase in the number of requests to find a Russian supplier from sub-Saharan Africa. Companies from such countries as South Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Benin are most interested in increasing imports. We frequently receive requests to search for suppliers in such industries as mineral fertilizers, food products and the rest,” explains an official from Russian Export Center.

In such Russia-Ukraine paradigm, Russian enterprises and importers still need to understand a set of priority problems and barriers, especially now when showing searching for alternatives for European suppliers, and interested in establishing stable long-term with African partners.

Polina Slyusarchuk, Head of Intexpertise (St. Petersburg-based African focused Consultancy Group), has questioned whether Russia has a long-term strategy in there. “Today, Russia wants to deepen its understanding of the business climate and explore trade and partnership opportunities in Africa. Now at this critical time, Russians have to decide what they can offer that foreign players haven’t yet been made available in the African market in exchange for needed importable consumables,” she underscored.

The Maghreb region is an important gateway to Europe and to sub-Saharan Africa. In the past few years, Russian companies have taken active steps to increase both imports and exports of agricultural products. South Africa, Kenya, Morocco and a few others have been delivering fruits, described as marginal quality though, in the Russian market.

In an interview discussion for this article, Dr. Chtatou Mohamed, a senior professor of Middle Eastern politics at the International University of Rabat, emphasized that, on the geo-economic level, the five Arab countries present themselves as an unavoidable interface to enter the African continent, these are rich in raw materials and present as the great consumer market.

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“While the context between Russia and Western countries is highly troubled, and characterized in particular by a regime of sanctions and counter-sanctions, it is to better serve the interests of their peoples and find solutions by exploiting the opportunities. Moscow has more room for turn round export-import business with the countries of sub-Saharan Africa,” he pointed out.

Currently the geopolitical relations of most Mediterranean Arab countries with Russia are good, even for those who were allies of the United States during the period of world bipolarity along the years of the Cold War (the case of Egypt and from Morocco).

Members of African diplomatic missions informed the greatly unrealized potential of cooperation between Russia and African countries, and interest in attracting investments in agro-industry infrastructure, education and many other sectors, and unreservedly called for a wider interaction between African business circles and Russian businesses.

During the early March discussion, the participants mentioned high import duties, complicated certification procedures, high cost of products, expensive logistics, security and guarantee issues, and information vacuum as some of the barriers to Russian-African trade and economic cooperation. As always, the participants agreed on the need to develop a comprehensive strategy for Russia to work with Africa.

Indeed, Russia is already one of the ten largest food suppliers to Africa. Removing barriers could help export-import collaboration reach an entirely new level. Russian and African business communities lack of awareness regarding the current state of markets, along with trade and investment opportunities. There is an insufficient level of trust towards potential partners. These issues swiftly have to be resolved through establishing an effective system of communication to guarantee their reliability and integrity between public business associations in Russia and Africa.

In the meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered to restrict or prohibit import and export of certain products and raw materials from Russia in 2022, according to the decree on special foreign economic measures aimed to ensure Russia’s security.

“Ensure implementation of the following special economic measures until December 31, 2022: export and import ban of products and/or raw materials in accordance with lists to be defined by the government of the Russian Federation,” the document says, adding that a separate list will define goods, whose export and import will be restricted. The decree becomes necessary in order to ensure Russia’s security and uninterrupted operation of agriculture and industry.

On March 9, Putin and his Senegalese counterpart, Chair of the African Union, President Macky Sall held a telephone conversation to discuss the situation covering Russia’s special military operation to protect Donbass and the development of ties between Moscow and Africa.

“At the request of President Sall, Vladimir Putin informed him on the main aspects of the special military operation to protect the breakaway republics with an emphasis on the humanitarian element. In particular, it was stressed that Russian military personnel take every possible measure to safely evacuate foreign citizens,” the Kremlin press service said in a statement circulated after the conversation.

The Kremlin further stressed that the leaders confirmed the importance of the consistent implementation of the agreements reached at the first Russia-Africa summit in Sochi in 2019 and the further development of diverse ties in various economic spheres between Russia and African countries.

According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the preparations for the Russia-Africa summit are in the active stage. The dates of the summit have not been determined yet. The first Russia-Africa summit took place in October 2019, and it was co-chaired by Russian and Egyptian Presidents, Vladimir Putin and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The next summit scheduled for autumn 2022.

Via ModernDiplomacy

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Law & Order

From Safety to Chaos: The Deteriorating Law and Order Situation in Kashmore

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The district of Kashmore in Sindh, Pakistan, is grappling with a deteriorating law and order situation that has left its residents in a state of perpetual fear. The district administration and police have failed to curb rampant criminal activities, including kidnappings for ransom, tribal killings, and extortion. This article explores the current state of affairs, the failures of law enforcement, and the impact on the community.

Current State of Law and Order

Kidnappings for Ransom

Kashmore has witnessed a surge in kidnappings, with incidents like the abduction of a three-year-old Hindu girl highlighting the severity of the problem[1][2]. The district has seen numerous cases where individuals are taken hostage for ransom, creating an atmosphere of terror among residents. According to reports, 218 people were kidnapped recently, with 11 still in captivity[5].

Tribal Killings and Extortion

Tribal conflicts have exacerbated the lawlessness in Kashmore. These disputes often lead to violent clashes and extortion demands that go unchecked by authorities[1][4]. The lack of decisive action against such crimes has emboldened perpetrators.

Failure of District Administration and Police

Inadequate Response to Crime

The local police’s inability to effectively respond to criminal activities is evident from their failure to register cases promptly or trace perpetrators[1][2]. Community leaders have expressed frustration over the police’s apathy, accusing them of neglecting their duties[3].

Corruption and Mismanagement

Corruption within the police force further compounds the problem. Recently, 22 police officers were dismissed for having connections with criminals, underscoring systemic issues within law enforcement[4].

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Impact on Community

Fear and Insecurity Among Residents

The rampant crime has instilled fear among Kashmore’s residents, particularly its minority communities. Protests by the Hindu community following kidnappings reflect their desperation for safety[1][2]. The frequent strikes called in response to these crimes disrupt daily life and economic activities[3].

Targeting of Minority Communities

The Hindu community in Kashmore has been disproportionately targeted for kidnappings, adding a layer of communal tension to the district’s problems. This targeting not only threatens their safety but also their sense of belonging in their homeland[1][3].

Government and Law Enforcement Initiatives

Planned Operations Against Criminals

In response to public outcry, a joint operation involving the Army and Rangers is planned to dismantle dacoit hideouts along the Sindh-Punjab border[5]. This initiative aims to address the root causes of crime by removing entrenched criminal networks.

Enhancement of Security Measures

Efforts are underway to bolster security through the establishment of additional police posts in high-risk areas. These measures are intended to provide a more robust law enforcement presence capable of deterring crime[5].

Conclusion

Kashmore’s lawlessness is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention from both local authorities and higher government officials. The failure to effectively address crime not only endangers lives but also undermines trust in public institutions. It is imperative that comprehensive strategies are implemented to restore peace and security in Kashmore, ensuring that all residents can live without fear.

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Education

World Teachers Day 2024: Teachers Are the Game Changers of the World

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Free classroom school image

World Teachers Day, celebrated on October 5, 2024, emphasizes the pivotal role teachers play in shaping society. This year’s theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” underscores the necessity of recognizing educators as vital contributors to learning and societal progress[1][2].

Teachers as Catalysts for Change

Teachers are not just transmitters of knowledge; they are catalysts for change. They inspire critical thinking, creativity, and resilience in students, equipping them to tackle global challenges. By fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility, educators help cultivate informed citizens who can contribute positively to their communities[2][3].

Challenges Faced by Educators

Despite their crucial role, teachers often face significant challenges, including inadequate resources and overwhelming workloads. Addressing these issues is essential for unlocking their full potential as change agents. A renewed commitment to supporting teachers through professional development and improved working conditions is necessary to enhance educational outcomes globally[2][4].

Conclusion

As we celebrate World Teachers Day 2024, let us honor the dedication and impact of educators. By valuing their voices and addressing their needs, we can empower teachers to continue transforming lives and shaping a better future for all.

Citations:
[1] Happy World Teachers’ Day 2024: 30+ Quotes, Wishes, Messages to … https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/happy-world-teachers-day-2024-top-quotes-wishes-messages-to-share-with-educators-around-globe-1728029682-1
[2] World Teachers Day 2024: We Value Teachers’ Role in Transforming … https://www.humana.org/more/news/world-teachers-day-2024-we-value-teachers-role-in-transforming-education
[3] World Teachers’ Day 2024 – The Keyword https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/world-teachers-day-2024/
[4] World Teacher’s Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, Theme https://english.jagran.com/lifestyle/world-teachers-day-2024-date-history-significance-theme-all-you-need-to-know-10192128
[5] World Teachers’ Day 2024 Friday 4 October | British Council https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/news-events/world-teachers-day-2024/world-teachers-day-2024-friday-4-october
[6] WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY – 5 October 2024 – THEME – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dw4_d_mzv8
[7] World Teacher’s Day 2024 | Event Information | Twinkl USA https://www.twinkl.com/event/world-teachers-day-usa-2024
[8] Stefania Giannini on LinkedIn: #worldteachersday #education https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stefania-giannini-2bb1ab16a_worldteachersday-education-activity-7248017571747094528-p0tv

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Islam

The Birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): His Role in Reforming Society and Promoting Human Rights

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buildings and people around it

Introduction

The birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), known as Mawlid al-Nabi, is celebrated across the Muslim world as a day of reverence and reflection. Born in the year 570 CE in Mecca, his life and teachings profoundly transformed not only the Arabian Peninsula but also the entire world. Muhammad (PBUH) was not only a religious leader but also a reformer, a statesman, and a champion of human rights. His reforms touched every aspect of life, from social justice to human dignity, and his most revolutionary work was in the area of women’s rights and societal welfare.

Historical Context of the Prophet’s Birth

At the time of the Prophet’s birth, Arabian society was deeply divided by tribalism, superstition, and ignorance. The powerful oppressed the weak, slavery was rampant, and women were treated as second-class citizens. Infanticide, particularly the killing of female infants, was common. The birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) marked the beginning of a new era of human rights, equality, and justice.

Reforming Society Through the Teachings of Islam

The Holy Prophet’s mission as a reformer was not just limited to spiritual upliftment. It involved a complete transformation of societal structures to ensure justice, peace, and equality. The Prophet’s teachings, as enshrined in the Quran and the Hadiths (his sayings and actions), reshaped the entire socio-political landscape.

  1. Social Justice and Equality

One of the Prophet’s earliest reforms was the concept of social equality. In a society divided by tribal hierarchies and economic disparity, Muhammad (PBUH) declared that no one is superior to another based on race, tribe, or wealth. He famously stated in his final sermon:

“All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black nor does a black have any superiority over a white.”

This teaching laid the foundation for a more egalitarian society where individuals were judged based on their character, not their social standing.

  1. Abolishing Slavery and Promoting Compassion

While slavery was an accepted norm across the world during the Prophet’s time, Muhammad (PBUH) worked tirelessly to abolish it gradually. He encouraged freeing slaves as an act of piety, and many early Muslims, including his close companions, liberated numerous slaves. The Prophet himself set an example by freeing his own slaves and treating them as equals.

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Islam introduced a systematic approach to ending slavery by making it a virtuous deed to free slaves, providing them with rights and dignity.

The Prophet’s Contributions to Human Rights

  1. Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Prophet’s teachings on human rights can be viewed as a precursor to modern human rights frameworks. Long before the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), Muhammad (PBUH) established a moral and ethical code that guaranteed rights for every individual—whether Muslim or non-Muslim. His Charter of Medina is considered one of the earliest constitutions, establishing justice, tolerance, and freedom of religion for all inhabitants of the city, regardless of their faith.

  1. Fairness and Justice

The Prophet emphasized that justice was a central component of his mission. He promoted fairness in dealings and impartiality, ensuring that justice was served regardless of someone’s power or influence. In this regard, his treatment of enemies, prisoners, and the disadvantaged was revolutionary. Even in war, the Prophet stressed the importance of safeguarding innocents, prisoners of war, and those unable to defend themselves.

The Prophet’s Reforms for Women’s Rights

Perhaps one of the most significant areas of reform was the Prophet’s work to elevate the status of women. Pre-Islamic Arabia was notorious for its oppression of women, who were denied basic rights, including the right to own property, inherit wealth, or even survive birth in some cases. The birth of Islam under the Prophet’s guidance marked a radical departure from these practices.

  1. The Right to Life and Dignity

Before Islam, female infanticide was a widespread practice. Women were seen as burdens on the family, and the birth of a girl was often met with sorrow. The Prophet condemned this practice in the strongest terms, declaring the sanctity of life for both males and females. The Quran explicitly forbids the killing of children, stating:

“Do not kill your children for fear of poverty; We provide for them and for you.” (Quran, 17:31)

  1. Economic Rights

One of the most revolutionary aspects of the Prophet’s message was giving women the right to own and manage their own property. This was unprecedented in a world where women were often seen as property themselves. Women in Islamic law could inherit wealth, own land, and conduct business independently of their male relatives. The Prophet’s first wife, Khadijah, was herself a successful businesswoman, and Muhammad (PBUH) worked alongside her in managing her enterprise.

  1. Educational Rights
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The Prophet emphasized the importance of education for both men and women. He stated, “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.” This command was inclusive of women, granting them the right and responsibility to seek knowledge—a stark contrast to many contemporary cultures that barred women from education.

  1. Marital Rights and Consent

In a society where women had little say in their own marriages, the Prophet introduced the concept of marital consent. He made it clear that a woman’s consent was essential for a valid marriage. Furthermore, he limited polygamy and ensured that a woman’s welfare was central to any marital relationship. The Prophet stated that the best of men are those who are kindest to their wives, thus promoting a vision of marriage based on mutual respect and love.

Welfare of Humanity and Social Welfare Initiatives

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also introduced a robust system of charity and social welfare to ensure the wellbeing of society at large. He instituted Zakat, a form of obligatory charity, to redistribute wealth and take care of the poor and needy. His teachings encouraged compassion and generosity, stressing that societal welfare was a collective responsibility.

  1. Care for Orphans and the Vulnerable

The Prophet had a deep love for orphans, being one himself. He ensured that orphans were cared for and not exploited. His message was clear: those who supported orphans would be in close proximity to him in paradise.

  1. Public Health and Hygiene

The Prophet also laid down the principles of public health and hygiene long before modern science. He emphasized the importance of cleanliness, preventive care, and overall well-being as part of a holistic approach to human welfare.

Conclusion

The birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is not merely a commemoration of his life but a celebration of his profound contributions to humanity. His reforms in the fields of human rights, especially women’s rights, and his advocacy for social justice and welfare make him a timeless figure. His vision for society was one where justice, compassion, and equality reign, setting the foundation for a more just and humane world. His legacy continues to inspire millions around the globe, serving as a beacon of light for all who strive for a better, more equitable world.

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