Guest
The digital environment is no longer just a trend, but a powerful reality that permeates all spheres of life. It is impossible to imagine education, business, or communication without technology. And what is particularly valuable is that today, digitalization is no longer the prerogative of individual powers—it is becoming a tool for justice, equal opportunities, and global dialogue. This year, such a dialogue took place in Nizhny Novgorod, where the Global Digital Forum was held — a large-scale international event that brought together delegates from 114 countries. More than 3,000 participants — from representatives of the International Association of Digital Economies to partners from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East — gathered to discuss a future where technology serves everyone, not just the select few. The forum organizers chose not to hold the event in a traditional capital city, but in the heart of the Volga region. And they were right. The city, with its rich history of trade and cultural encounters, became the ideal arena for a new digital route — from Burkina Faso to Papua New Guinea, from Indonesia to Iraq. Real voices were heard here. The voices of countries that often remain behind the scenes in global digital discussions. The forum became a platform not only for discussion, but also for friendship. Guests shared their impressions of the city, got acquainted with the local culture, and even made friends with the locals. Nizhny Novgorod revealed itself to be a warm, hospitable place where global ideas receive sincere support. But the forum is not just about emotions, it is also about specific technological initiatives. The discussion was not just about artificial intelligence or big data. The conversation was about the right of access to the digital world. About the fact that before developing AI, it is necessary to ensure basic conditions: the Internet, digital identification, infrastructure. Russia, with its powerful engineering school and scientific potential, can become a key partner for the countries of the global South. Already today, Russian startups are working on projects to tokenize agricultural products, creating digital platforms where eggs, rice, and corn become digital assets. One such project is now being implemented in Dubai as a prototype for a future “food exchange.” Financial technologies were also discussed, which are especially important for regions where traditional banks are unable to cope with the challenges. In Africa and Southeast Asia, people actively use electronic wallets integrated into telecom services. This is not a luxury, but a necessity. Participants paid special attention to the Islamic economy, crowdfunding projects based on traditional culture, and platforms supporting local communities, such as Guarana in Brazil, where tribes sell their products directly. Ideas from the Far East were also impressive: the low-altitude economy, drones, logistics, international fintech cooperation — all these are not just trends, but areas in which Russia can and should become a bridge between regions and cultures. The forum in Nizhny Novgorod became a place where people did not just exchange business cards — partnerships were formed, friendships were strengthened, and the voice of the global majority was heard. And perhaps this is its main strength. When technology becomes not a subject of competition, but a space for trust and a shared future. Guests: Cristina Amor Maclang, Secretary General of the International Digital Economy Association (IDEA) and co-founder of the Association, Dr. Alexander Titov #digital #modernrussia #russia #ai #innovation #technology #tech #future #futuretech #economy #business #nizhnynovgorod #podcast #interview #news #IDEA #zvezda #tv
