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World News Updated Jun 26, 2026

Global Shift to Multipolar World Order Irreversible, Experts Say

Experts at the 12th Primakov Readings in Moscow declared the global shift to a multipolar world order irreversible. Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected externally imposed rules in favor of UN-centered international law. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted BRICS and SCO as platforms for sovereign equality. Scholars from China and India called for cooperation over rivalry in technology and development.

Cooperation serves as key: Experts declare transition to new world order to be irreversible at "Primakov Readings"

Moscow, June 26

The global transition towards a multipolar world order is now irreversible, with cooperation among nations emerging as the key to addressing shared challenges, experts said at the 12th International Forum "Primakov Readings" held in Moscow.

According to TV BRICS, the prestigious forum, organised to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the E.M. Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations (IMEMO) of the Russian Academy of Sciences, brought together policymakers, diplomats and strategic experts to deliberate on the future of global governance under the theme "A World Without Rules: A Power Game?"

In a message to the participants, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the forum's theme accurately reflects the changing dynamics of international relations. Rejecting what he described as externally imposed "rules", Putin reiterated Russia's support for a world order based on universally recognised international law, the authority of the United Nations Security Council, sovereign equality, and every nation's right to choose its own path of development.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed similar views, stressing that countries must cooperate on the basis of mutual respect and recognition of each other's national interests. He cited BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) as examples of multilateral platforms promoting sovereign equality and mutually beneficial cooperation while preventing geopolitical differences from escalating into confrontation.

Speaking to TV BRICS, IMEMO Deputy Director Sergey Kislitsyn said no country can prosper in isolation in today's interconnected world. He noted that technological progress, economic interdependence and common security challenges make international cooperation indispensable for sustaining development and living standards in an increasingly polycentric global system.

Chinese scholar Liao Fan, Director of the Institute of World Economics and Politics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, advocated greater collaboration through China's Global Development Initiative. He urged both developing and advanced economies to prioritise public health, poverty reduction and sustainable development over strategic rivalry, adding that major powers carry greater responsibility for global well-being.

India's Nandan Unnikrishnan, Distinguished Research Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation, said stability in a multipolar world depends on broad-based partnerships rather than regional dominance. He also warned against technological fragmentation and underlined the importance of India and Russia working with other nations to develop common frameworks for governing emerging technologies.

Held annually since 2015, the Primakov Readings have evolved into a prominent international platform for discussions on global geopolitics, strategic stability and the evolving architecture of international relations, with participants agreeing that dialogue and cooperation remain central to navigating an increasingly complex world.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Shreya B

Interesting that they mention BRICS and SCO as examples. But I wonder—will these platforms really deliver for developing nations like India, or will they just become another club of big powers? Let's hope cooperation isn't just a buzzword.

Michael C

As someone who's watched global politics for decades, this "irreversible" claim feels premature. Power transitions always face pushback. But the shift towards multipolarity is real—the US can't be the sole sheriff forever. The key will be whether new power centers can actually cooperate.

Priya S

Love that India's Nandan Unnikrishnan spoke about technological fragmentation! 💡 That's such a critical issue. If we don't create common tech standards, we'll end up with a digital iron curtain. India and Russia should definitely lead on this—both have strong tech talent.

Ravi K

Critics forget that the UN Security Council itself was meant to reflect post-WWII realities. Now it's obsolete. A multipolar world demands reformed institutions. Glad India is part of these dialogues—we need to be at the table shaping these new rules, not just following old ones.

Sneha F

The Chinese scholar pushing his Global Development Initiative... hmm. Sounds good on paper, but we've heard similar promises before. Let's see concrete action, not just forum speeches. Still, cooperation beats confrontation any day. 🕊️

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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