PHNOM PENH, NOVEMBER 21. /TASS/. There is no turning back from the formation of a multipolar world, and the thriving Asia-Pacific Region will become one of its pillars, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council (upper house of Russia’s parliament) said, speaking at the 43rd General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA).
"Russian parliamentarians have always regarded the peoples of Asia as good neighbors and loyal associates. Undoubtedly, we welcome any endeavor aimed at strengthening interaction in the region. Moreover, inclusivity and joint action are absolutely in line with the contemporary spirit: the formation of a multipolar system, in which a prosperous Asia-Pacific Region will be one of the pillars. This historic phenomenon is irreversible," the senator said.
He added that parliamentarians could only influence the pace at which the world moves toward a more just and open system, "where there is no place for economic pressure, political blackmail and sanctions."
According to Kosachev, this transformation does not suit a number of forces "accustomed to single-handedly and arrogantly controlling the fate of the world, oppressing and parasitizing other peoples." "Today, these global forces are in a systemic crisis. But instead of openly admitting it, they want to plunge other nations into crisis. This has already happened, unfortunately, in Europe, and it can happen here, in Asia, if the West continues its policy of faux opposition between the countries they deem democratic, and those whom they accuse of authoritarianism," the lawmaker said.
He emphasized that Russia is "categorically against such an approach" based on bloc thinking.
Kosachev stressed that further strengthening of the lines of communication along the ASEAN - EAEA - the SCO was promising. "We believe that this will allow for a fuller implementation of the three pillars enshrined in the ASEAN Vision. In addition, we consider it important to take into account the prospects of multilateral integration interaction when developing the community concept for the period after 2025. The nexus, in our opinion, is the basis for creating a Greater Eurasian Partnership: a space for trust, dialogue and cooperation that will unite the enormous potentials of our countries, and bring security and prosperity to the homes of our citizens," he concluded.