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The Citizen
a day ago
- Business
- The Citizen
St Petersburg's serene splendour belies a nation at war
Russia's cultural capital St Petersburg exudes peace and beauty, masking the harsh reality of a country entangled in conflict. The captivating sense of calmness, the throngs of people milling about and the huge traffic volumes throughout St Petersburg belies the reality that Russia is in a state of war. St Petersburg is a sprawling cosmopolitan city. It is regarded as the mecca of Russia's culture and heritage, an epicentre of values as well as a haven of Russia's rich history. The city of Peter the Great The identity of being Russian can be easily located to a way of life in the majestic St Petersburg, sometimes referred to affectionately as 'St P'. Museums and art galleries decorate the city founded by Peter the Great in the 17th century. Born in Moscow in 1672, Peter the Great was first the Tsar of Russia and later became Russia's first Emperor from 1721 until his death in 1725, aged only 52 years and four months. His statue riding a horse overlooks the majestic Neva River around which St Petersburg is built. The architecture of the multi-storey buildings is clearly influenced by two factors – war and weather. Weather extremes and river life shape the urban experience Perimeter walls are as wide as nearly one metre. Ferocious winter weather, particularly around January to March, can see temperatures dropping to as low as -35°C. However, in the present summer season, dozens of boats travel with the Neva River's current in one direction, forming a beautiful flotilla. At times they travel pretty close to each other ferrying holiday makers from one end to the other. From Leningrad to modern St P: a city steeped in legacy and economics The metropolis was previously known as Leningrad until it was renamed back to its original name in modernity. ALSO READ: Anton Kobyakov: The quiet power behind Putin's Russia It plays host to the annual St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Russia's flagship trade and investment mega event. This year, up to 24 000 delegates from 144 countries participated in SPIEF, signing deals to the tune of 6.3 trillion roubles (about R1.4 trillion), according to the organisers. South Africa's delegation was led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, accompanied by eight ministers and business leaders. Mashatile delivered a public lecture at St Petersburg State University, the alma mater of legendary Russian leader Lenin, as well as the incumbent, President Vladimir Putin. Sacred scars St Petersburg also has a proud history of resistance. At its centre in Isak Square lies the famous Cathedral of St Isaac. The majestic cathedral is worshipped for surviving 148 bombs fired by Hitler's Nazi Germany's army that attacked during WWII from 1939-1945. Some of the cathedral's huge pillars bear evidence of the scars from the bomb attacks. The Russian authorities have elected to leave the pillars unrepaired as a symbol and constant reminder of the spirit of resilience. A law-abiding city Standing in front of the cathedral and facing the nearby Presidential Library, hundreds of vehicles can be seen throughout the six-lane wide roads. Men, women and children chill in the leafy parks. Everything looks oh so plush. Clearly-marked police vehicles incessantly drive past at high speed, with their siren blaring. At various intersections, uniformed traffic officers assist with traffic controls. Noticeably, there is no jay-walking. Pedestrians cross the roads only at the appropriate spots. The vivid respect for the law and for one another is hard to miss. Beneath the statue of Peter the Great tourists, by a large margin Russians, take turns taking photographs. ALSO READ: Cannes and caviar: Who is SA's Second Lady Humile Mashatile? Leisure and legacy on the water The statue of Peter the Great who founded the city takes pride of place. Picture: iStock You simply cannot claim to have visited St P without posing for pictures with the founder of the city. And then, there's the English Embankment. It runs along the Neva River, which I found to be too large to be described as a river. Instead, it looks more like a lake. Several canals spring from various spots to pour their waters into the Neva River, which itself runs for a total of 392km to neighbouring Finland, recently a new Nato member. Along the English Embankment tourists have fun. Ice creams, cold drinks, lovers and friends alike all mingle harmoniously to share in the enjoyment of St P. The midnight marvel of Palace Bridge On the horizon, the green-painted Palace Bridge serves to assist vehicles and pedestrians to cross from either side to the other. The bridge is famous for the magic it performs every day at midnight. The heavy steel structure that makes up the Palace Bridge separates in the middle. Slowly, one half moves to the left and other half to the right. It is an incredible show to watch. It is hard not to scream in awe of the magic. The practice is a carryover from an old tradition, when the tallest ships had to be accommodated to pass through the bridge. Although the ships no longer exist, St Petersburg has retained the practice, which is a hugely popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. There was a musical concert for the 20 000-plus delegates to SPIEF. It took place at Palace Square, in front of Hermitage Museum. The singing, dance and camaraderie once again triggered in me the lingering question – is Russia at war? NOW READ: Russia warns US against 'military intervention' in Iran-Israel war
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
South Africa Aims to Triple Trade with Russia, Says Deputy President Mashatile
H-Tayea St. Petersburg, Russia – South Africa is seeking to significantly expand trade and technological collaboration with Russia across strategic sectors, Deputy President Paul Mashatile stated during an interview at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025, according to TV BRICS. Mashatile said that the current trade volume of approximately $1 billion is far below potential, expressing hope that bilateral trade could triple. He noted that South Africa brought 20 companies to SPIEF to initiate direct talks and project partnerships with Russian firms. Key areas of cooperation include energy, mining, agriculture, and digital technology. Mashatile emphasized energy as South Africa's top priority, citing Russia's expertise in wind, solar, gas, and nuclear energy. He confirmed that nuclear energy is now part of South Africa's energy mix, and cooperation with Russia could accelerate its development. He also highlighted the importance of value-added mineral processing, pointing to Russian technologies that could help South Africa benefit more from its raw materials. On agriculture, he noted increasing citrus and wine exports to Russia, as well as poultry imports from Russia, as part of a deepening trade exchange. Mashatile thanked Russia for supporting South Africa's G20 presidency and reaffirmed commitment to broader cooperation in BRICS. On the sidelines of SPIEF, he met with President Vladimir Putin to discuss strengthening ties across trade, education, and culture. Putin noted that more than 570 South African students currently study in Russia and welcomed further cultural exchange, including South Africa's participation in the Intervision music competition. Both leaders affirmed their intent to enhance bilateral cooperation and continue dialogue at the upcoming BRICS summit. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
SPIEF Announces Growing Influence of BRICS Media in World
Yara Sameh Representatives of TV BRICS media partners – China Central Television (CCTV) and TV BRICS Africa – took part in the session "BRICS Media: Defending Free Speech and Promoting an Alternative Cultural and Information Agenda" at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), according to TV BRICS. Among the speakers was Maria Zakharova, official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The diplomat emphasised that the media space of the BRICS countries is based on the principles of respect, objectivity, and national specificity. "BRICS does not simply defend the right to freedom of speech – our association implements it through broadcasting channels, cultural forums, student exchanges, scientific platforms, social networks and, of course, through such meetings. [...] We are humanity, we are the voice of a free and diverse future", she said. Zakharova added that the Kazan Declaration of the 16th BRICS Summit emphasises the need to ensure free and open access to reliable information. Wang Bin, Head of CCTV's Eurasian bureau, noted that the BRICS countries, combining economic potential and cultural diversity, are striving for common development and already represent a significant force in the world today. According to him, China Media Group is actively expanding its global presence, focusing on promoting the country's traditional culture. "The media of the BRICS countries base their work on the principles of openness, inclusiveness and mutually beneficial cooperation. [...] We tell one common story, but from different points of view. This is the true freedom of speech," said Wang Bin. In turn, Ayanda Hollow, President of TV BRICS Africa, said that Africa occupies a strong position in BRICS, actively interacting with member countries and partners of the association. He called for strengthening communication. This, he said, will allow more people to learn about the life and values of the group's member states. CGTN presenter Zheng Junfeng also shared his views on media cooperation in BRICS in an exclusive interview at the TV BRICS studio in the Roscongress International Cooperation Area at St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025. He noted that the growing power of Russia, China and other developing countries is contributing to the expansion of their influence in the global information field. The journalist emphasised the importance of intercultural exchange and information dialogue, adding that TV BRICS is successfully fulfilling its role as a communication platform within the expanding association. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Honduras Considers BRICS as Part of Shift Towards Multipolar Cooperation
Yara Sameh At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025, representatives from different countries gathered under the motto "Common Values – the Basis for Growth in a Multipolar World", according to TV BRICS. Among them is Ricardo Salgado Bonilla, Minister of Strategic Planning of the Republic of Honduras. He spoke about the country's growing interest in global platforms that promote inclusive and equitable cooperation in an exclusive commentary at the TV BRICS studio in the Roscongress International Cooperation Area at St. Petersburg International Economic Forum ( SPIEF) 2025. Minister of Strategic Planning said that SPIEF offers environment 'that is inclusive, where we can talk about our expectations with people who are interested in investment.' The official also discussed Honduras' recent application to join the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), framing it as a step towards broader international cooperation. "So for us it's a big step to take a look at the world to go and ask for being a part of this new bank, and, why not in the coming future also applying for a membership in BRICS," he said. Honduran President Xiomara Castro submitted an official request to join the New Development Bank of BRICS during her visit to China in June 2023. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova: BRICS Represents Global Majority
Yara Sameh Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that BRICS has evolved from an informal platform for dialogue into an association capable of responding to global challenges with practical actions, according to TV BRICS. She spoke about this in an exclusive interview at the TV BRICS studio in the Roscongress International Cooperation Area at St. Petersburg International Economic Forum ( SPIEF) 2025. According to her, BRICS represents the global majority, which possesses real leadership qualities. She also noted that the countries of the group unite a significant part of the world's population. "This is an association that has brought together representatives of the global majority under its umbrella, who through their work and achievements truly demonstrate leadership qualities and, accordingly, occupy leadership positions," she added. The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry added that BRICS does not need any additional assessments, as it demonstrates everything based on real facts. "This is a group of countries that are the largest in terms of their territory. And terms of population, and in terms of area, and in terms of achievements in science, technology, and culture," she said. Maria Zakharova also commented on the significance of the SPIEF. She called the forum an established international platform for communication. "Of course, the original meaning and core is economics, finance, exchange of opportunities, and search for partners. But this forum has long gone beyond a single topic," she concluded. The SPIEF is the largest business event held annually in St. Petersburg since 1997. Since 2006, it has been held under the patronage of the President of Russia. The forum brings together politicians, businesspeople and experts from dozens of countries. Text copied from read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
