Russia’s foreign policy in 2024, guided by the Foreign Policy Concept approved by President Vladimir Putin in March 2023, was marked by a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing Russia’s role on the global stage. From advancing Eurasian security to asserting an anti-neocolonial agenda and cultivating stronger ties with the Global Majority, Russia’s diplomatic efforts in 2024 underscored its shift toward a multipolar world order and its commitment to an independent foreign policy.
Key Achievements in Eurasian Security and Integration
One of the central themes of Russia’s foreign policy this year was the creation of an architecture for indivisible security in Eurasia. Following President Putin’s June speech outlining this vision, Russia took concrete steps to strengthen regional security. In October, the Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) issued a statement on cooperative security principles, while in November, Russia and Belarus signed a Joint Statement affirming a shared vision of Eurasian multipolarity. Bilateral agreements with Belarus and North Korea focused on mutual security guarantees, including nuclear deterrence measures.
Russia’s push for Eurasian integration was also bolstered through economic initiatives. Efforts to develop the North-South International Transport Corridor (NSITC) were strengthened, with agreements facilitating infrastructure projects in Iran, Kazakhstan, and Belarus. New special economic zones were created with Iran, India, and Kazakhstan, cementing Russia’s role in shaping Greater Eurasia’s economic future.
Combatting Neocolonialism and Enhancing Global Cooperation
Russia’s commitment to countering neocolonialism gained significant traction in 2024. The country championed a global movement against modern colonial practices, with more than 50 countries joining the initiative. Russia also played a pivotal role in securing the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution in December that called for the eradication of colonialism in all its forms, designating December 14 as International Day for the Elimination of Colonialism.
The diplomatic momentum extended to Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, where Russia deepened ties through a range of initiatives. The Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, held in November, mapped out new areas for cooperation, including food security, healthcare, and digital transition. Russia also strengthened its relationship with the Islamic world, with key visits to the UAE and diplomatic engagements with Arab countries to discuss regional stability.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Key Partners
Russia’s foreign policy was characterized by high-level visits and agreements aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation with strategic partners. In May, President Putin visited Uzbekistan, followed by a trip to Kazakhstan in November, where discussions focused on energy, transport, and joint production projects. The year also saw President Putin’s first state visit to Azerbaijan in August, further cementing bilateral relations.
The strategic partnership with China reached new heights following President Putin’s visit to Beijing in May, with mutual trade surpassing $240 billion and payments predominantly conducted in national currencies. Relations with India were similarly enhanced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Russia in July, which led to expanded cooperation in finance, energy, and technology.
Russia’s diplomatic outreach also extended to North Korea, with a June visit to Pyongyang marking the signing of a Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Similarly, President Putin’s visits to Vietnam and Mongolia in June and September bolstered ties in energy, transport, and investment.
Expanding Influence within Multilateral Frameworks
Russia played a leading role in multilateral diplomacy, with significant contributions to the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The Kazan BRICS summit in July was a landmark event, convening leaders from 36 states and multilateral organisations. Under Russia’s chairmanship, BRICS made strides in reforming the global financial system, promoting cross-border payments, and launching initiatives in climate, nuclear medicine, and transport.
In the CIS, Russia’s leadership helped push forward initiatives in energy, trade, and regional security. Notably, Belarus became a full SCO member, and the CSTO enhanced its mechanisms for countering terrorism, drug trafficking, and cybercrime.
A Pivot Toward the Global Majority
Russia’s focus on the Global Majority—countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America—intensified in 2024. Russia expanded its trade missions in these regions, and the signing of several economic agreements underscored its strategic importance. The Russia-ASEAN dialogue grew stronger, marked by the 20th anniversary of Russia’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. Relations with Latin America also flourished, with high-level visits from Cuban, Bolivian, and Venezuelan leaders.
Navigating Relations with the West
On the Western front, Russian diplomacy worked to counter the growing economic, informational, and ideological pressures from NATO and the EU. Despite continued efforts by the West to maintain its global dominance, Russia reinforced its position that the Ukraine crisis could only be resolved by addressing the root causes of Russia’s security concerns, primarily NATO’s eastward expansion and the protection of Russian-speaking populations.
Through direct diplomatic engagement with NATO and EU leaders, including those from Austria, Hungary, and Türkiye, Russia emphasized its stance on security and sovereignty, particularly in relation to the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Cultural and Humanitarian Diplomacy
In addition to political and economic initiatives, Russia made significant strides in cultural diplomacy. The inaugural Games of the Future international tournament, held in February and March, attracted over 2,000 participants from across the globe. The BRICS Games in June further promoted cultural exchange through sports, while the 10th St Petersburg International United Cultures Forum in September called for zero tolerance towards the politicisation of cultural cooperation.
The establishment of Russian Houses in countries lacking science and culture centers marked a new chapter in Russia’s outreach. A wide range of international forums, including the World Youth Festival and the Valdai International Discussion Club, saw a growing interest in Russia’s vision of a multipolar world order.
Looking Ahead
As 2024 draws to a close, Russia’s foreign policy has demonstrated a clear trajectory toward bolstering its international standing through strategic partnerships, multilateral engagement, and efforts to counter neocolonialism. The year has also seen a resurgence of Russia’s leadership in Eurasian integration and strengthened relations with countries in the Global Majority.
As Russia continues to assert itself in a multipolar world, it remains committed to an independent foreign policy that prioritizes security, sovereignty, and equitable development. The groundwork laid in 2024 will likely shape Russia’s diplomatic agenda for years to come, as the country seeks to redefine global governance structures and expand its influence on the world stage.