Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Victory: A CIS Summit Overview
On October 9, 2024, the Council of CIS Heads of State convened in Moscow, marking a significant transition as the chairmanship of this historic integration project was passed to Turkmenistan. This year's agenda is heavily influenced by the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War, a momentous occasion for all nations within the post-Soviet space. Despite contemporary challenges, this anniversary remains a unifying theme among the CIS countries.
During the informal gathering prior to the summit, leaders, including President Putin, celebrated his birthday—a tradition that emphasizes the importance of camaraderie among the Commonwealth's leaders. Putin reiterated the significance of the CIS in Russia's foreign policy, describing the member states as close neighbors, friends, and strategic partners. His commitment to enhancing cooperation is evident in the anticipated events planned for Russia's chairmanship in 2024.
Economic growth within the CIS has shown resilience, with an average GDP growth rate of nearly 5% among member states, driven primarily by Russia's economic performance. Despite ongoing Western sanctions and geopolitical pressures, Putin highlighted the expansion of economic ties within the CIS, framing it as essential for the prosperity of the region. The concept of security guarantees was emphasized as a priority in international relations, especially in light of the current geopolitical climate involving the West's actions in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The summit also addressed the geopolitical tensions affecting member countries. Leaders expressed concerns over Western influence and the instability it brings, particularly regarding Armenia and Kazakhstan. Despite these pressures, the consensus among CIS states is that the benefits of cooperation with Russia far outweigh any potential gains from alignment with Western powers.
As the CIS prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, the shared history and sacrifices of its peoples serve as a powerful reminder of their unity. The upcoming celebrations are set to be held at a national level across member states, reinforcing the message that the Victory Space remains intact against external attempts to disrupt it.
