MOSCOW. MARCH 31, 2025. PIR PRESS. “This report is a significant contribution to the study of regional cooperation prospects. The author thoroughly analyzes the current state of high-tech business, identifies factors driving its growth, and outlines potential challenges. Leonid Tsukanov presents extensive aggregated data and well-supported arguments, making his report both insightful and informative. His recommendations for strengthening Russia’s position in this sector add further value to the study of foreign policy and economic issues,” – Mr. Andrey Yarnykh, Member of the Board of the Regional Public Center for Internet Technologies, Member of PIR Center Advisory Board.
PIR Center is pleased to announce the publication of its analytical report «“From the Gulf to Sub-Saharan Africa”: The Development of Digital Technologies and Russia’s Interests» (in Russian). The report was authored by of the Dr. Leonid Tsukanov, PhD in Political Science and Consultant at PIR Center. The paper version of the report was distributed to government agencies, business structures, and leading experts. The digital version is available on the PIR Center website (in Russian).
This report provides a detailed analysis of the development of scientific recommendations for strengthening cooperation at both the interstate level and within the business dialogue format across various high-tech sectors in the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa. The study focuses on a comprehensive international policy analysis of key aspects of digital technologies, including cybersecurity, digital transformation in the economy and governance, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), national software development, and international cooperation in these fields. Additionally, the report introduces a new category, “Persian Gulf+,” denoting a group of nations within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The report has been prepared within the framework of the joint project of PIR Center and MGIMO University «Global Security, Strategic Stability, and Arms Control» under the auspices of the «Priority-2030» Strategic Academic Leadership Program.
PIR Center’s research examines the effectiveness of national digital strategies in the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa by assessing the role of both state and private actors in the development of AI through technical, social, and political lenses. The report also explores the balance between using off-the-shelf software and developing competitive national software solutions in these regions. Based on the political landscape analyzed, the study finds that a strict regulatory framework can foster the rapid growth of technological startups and the expansion of a digital market, as demonstrated by Iran’s experience in this sector.
Russia’s interests and strategic priorities play a key role in the report, particularly regarding international cooperation in digital technologies. Among other aspects, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of the AI market as a key driver of intensive cooperation between Russia and the countries of the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa. The report highlights experimental legal frameworks and best business practices facilitated by Russian corporations to support these partnerships.
Cybersecurity remains a strategic priority for both the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa. Moscow’s key objective is to enhance cooperation in modern cybersecurity approaches, presenting an opportunity to further strengthen strategic relations with countries in these regions.
The report acknowledges the intense global competition in the digital technology sector in the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa, with increasing activity from China, the United States, and the European Union. Nevertheless, the study concludes that Russia’s expertise and experience as an active player in the global digital landscape remain relevant and in demand across both regions.
“The digital world continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and this trend is characteristic not only of the Gulf States but also of the Sub-Saharan region. Expanding ties in cyberspace present opportunities for these regions while also introducing new threats. International cooperation with leading digital players, including Russia, provides additional leverage for enhancing national capabilities,” – Dr. Leonid Tsukanov, PIR Center Consultant.
Experts highlight the report’s significance for shaping Russia’s digital strategy, emphasizing its practical value and the importance of its findings for both public and private sector representatives:
- “The author has put immense effort into analyzing the complex digital landscape of the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa, identifying key trends and opportunities for Russia. The result is a valuable resource for understanding these regions and formulating effective strategies. The flexible format of the report allows us to examine its findings comprehensively or focus on specific aspects based on our research and practical interests. I believe this paper will become an essential reference for Russian specialists seeking to enter new markets,” – Dr. Vadim Kozyulin, Chief Researcher of the Center for Global Studies and International Relations of the ICIS, Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Member of PIR Center Executive Board;
- “This report represents a fundamental applied study, in which Leonid Tsukanov provides a comprehensive analysis of the digital potential of the Persian Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa. The report has the potential to serve as both a ‘desk book’ and a ‘road map’ for policymakers, analysts, and business professionals. Its practice-oriented approach makes it particularly valuable for decision-makers in foreign policy, relevant government agencies, research institutions, and business circles,” – Mr. Sergey Sebekin, Expert at the ICIS, Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Member of the International Group for Research on the Malicious Use of Artificial Intelligence, Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science, History, and Regional Studies, Irkutsk State University.
A summary of the report and key materials are available in special issue of PIR Center’s Security Index in Russian: «“From the Gulf to Sub-Saharan Africa”: The Development of Digital Technologies and Russia’s Interests».
Кeywords: Africa; The Gulf; Digital Technologies
AFR, GULF
F13/AST – 25/03/31
