The Russian Federation has expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support in the United Nations’ adoption of a resolution aimed at combating the glorification of Nazism.
This was disclosed by the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podelyshev, during a photo exhibition held on Wednesday in Abuja.
The exhibition, organised by the Russian Embassy, commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany during the Second World War.
Podelyshev described the war, referred to in Russia as the Great Patriotic War, as one of the most devastating conflicts in history, claiming tens of millions of lives.
He said the exhibition served to honour victims of the war and raise awareness about the dangers of glorifying Nazism.
He noted that Nigeria’s support during the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York was particularly significant, as the country voted in favour of a resolution opposing the glorification of Nazism and related ideologies such as racism, xenophobia, and intolerance.
Podelyshev said, “I love to thank Nigeria for the support of Russia’s side in the UN’s waiting for the resolution in combating glorification of Nazism.
“During the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, where the resolution held on combating glorification of Nazism and practices that contributed to contemporary forms of racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance, Nigeria voted to support this resolution.
“We really appreciate the cooperation from Nigeria, and we will cooperate with Nigeria on the international front, especially at the level of the United Nations.”
The ambassador also highlighted Nigeria’s recent partnership with BRICS as a step forward in deepening bilateral and multilateral relations, describing the move as a sign of enriching prospects for cooperation.
“Recently, Nigeria became a partner of BRICS, and I am sure that our prospects for cooperation are just enriching.
“Of course, bilateral contexts are on different issues throughout the world, and it is very important for our cooperation to further improve,” the ambassador said.
Touching on international security, Podelyshev stressed the importance of continuous dialogue to address global challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity.
He reiterated Russia’s stance on promoting a multipolar world order that respects the rights and interests of all nations.
The ambassador added, “Russia’s approach towards promoting multipolarisation as a means to tackling global challenges has not changed. We will ensure that the future is multipolar
“The multipolar world and the rights of the different countries to unite for a common interest are the main focus of our President. Naturally, the future world order is supposed to be constructed on these concerns of the interests of different countries in a multipolar world.
“African continent is virtually one of these polar genuine cultures and policies, and historically pursuing its own interests in the world. We see this cooperation of African powers, among others, Nigeria, especially, as one of the main priorities of our foreign policy.”
The Great Patriotic War started in 1941 and ended in 1945, resulting in the establishment of the United Nations through the active participation of the USSR, which bolstered a new global system to prevent future wars and protect the dignity of nations.