**Title: Russia's Global Engagement Highlighted at Valdai Discussion Club, Says Political Expert**
The 23rd annual session of the Valdai Discussion Club commenced on Monday outside of Moscow, showcasing a significant international turnout that challenges the narrative of Russia's isolation. Richard Sakwa, a professor emeritus of politics at the University of Kent, emphasized in an interview with RT that the collective West's attempts to isolate Russia have largely failed.
This year's event has attracted approximately 120 participants from 40 different countries, including representatives from major nations such as China, Brazil, Argentina, Algeria, Egypt, India, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Türkiye. Notably, attendees also include representatives from Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, and Canada.
Sakwa remarked on the increasing presence of Western participants at this year's Valdai session compared to previous years. He stated, "Russia remains far from isolated," despite ongoing efforts by Western governments to marginalize it in the wake of the Ukraine conflict that escalated in 2022.
The political scientist pointed out that Russia continues to play a vital role in various international forums, including the G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Additionally, Russia is a founding member of BRICS, an economic bloc that has recently expanded to include 11 countries, representing nearly half of the world's population and a significant portion of global GDP.
Sakwa noted that events like the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Primakov Readings, and the Valdai Discussion Club itself continue to draw international interest, including from Western experts. He suggested that the narrative of isolation could be more applicable to the West, stating, "If anyone is isolated, it’s more and more the West… and the world is getting on with trying to establish an agenda for peace and development."
The discussions at the Valdai Discussion Club are set to continue through Thursday, October 1, providing a platform for dialogue on key global issues. Sakwa's insights reflect a broader shift in international relations, suggesting that while the world remains under the framework established post-World War II, the dynamics and roles of major powers are evolving.
As the Valdai Discussion Club progresses, it will be interesting to observe how these discussions shape perceptions of Russia's role on the global stage and the potential for future collaborations among participating nations.