Moscow is currently hosting one of the world’s most significant security gatherings as the 13th International Meeting of High-Level Security Representatives commenced on Wednesday, May 27, 2025. The event, which runs through May 29, has brought together 126 delegations from 104 countries, marking a crucial moment for global diplomacy and security dialogue amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Representatives from influential global blocs and institutions — including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the League of Arab States, the African Union, and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) — are in attendance. The summit has quickly emerged as a powerful symbol of Moscow’s intent to assert its role as a central player in global security cooperation, especially in light of increasing polarization on the world stage.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who is hosting the event, has engaged in a series of bilateral talks with key international security leaders on the sidelines of the summit. These meetings underscore Russia’s focus on deepening strategic alliances across different regions and political blocs.
During a closed-door meeting with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Shoigu voiced optimism over the finalization of a pivotal strategic partnership agreement between Moscow and Tehran. “We hope that the Islamic Republic of Iran will soon ratify our comprehensive strategic partnership agreement,” Shoigu said. “This will further deepen our multifaceted cooperation and allow both nations to confront modern security threats together.”
Shoigu praised the decades-long collaboration between the two countries, especially in counterterrorism efforts, energy cooperation, and regional security issues. His comments come at a time when both nations are under considerable Western sanctions and have moved closer politically, economically, and militarily.
In another key engagement, Shoigu met with North Korea’s State Security Minister, Ri Chang-dae. The Russian official commended Moscow’s evolving ties with Pyongyang, highlighting the necessity of strong alliances amid what he described as an increasingly “complex international situation.”
“Our relations with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea are founded on mutual respect and strategic partnership,” Shoigu said. “Given the volatile global landscape, it is essential that countries committed to sovereignty and multipolarity continue to support one another.”
Minister Ri responded with a warm reaffirmation of North Korea’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Russia, citing mutual opposition to Western influence and support for a multipolar international order. Though details of the bilateral discussions remain confidential, analysts believe military coordination, border security, and economic aid were likely on the agenda.
Shoigu also held discussions with Bosnian Serb President Milorad Dodik, a frequent critic of NATO and Western involvement in the Balkans. Dodik, known for his pro-Russian stance, has repeatedly called for closer ties between Republika Srpska — the Serb entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina — and Moscow.
“Russia has consistently respected our position and sovereignty,” Dodik said after the meeting. “We value this relationship and believe that stronger collaboration with Russia will help protect our national interests in a rapidly changing global environment.”
The Moscow-hosted summit aims to address a wide range of transnational security issues, from terrorism and cybercrime to food and energy security. As global institutions grapple with multiple overlapping crises — including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, unrest in the Middle East, and persistent economic instability — this year’s gathering is viewed as particularly significant.
The high attendance — including delegations from emerging economies and traditional allies alike — signals growing interest in forming alternative security arrangements that may challenge Western-led frameworks such as NATO and the G7.
“This summit demonstrates that international dialogue on security is no longer exclusive to the West,” a Russian foreign affairs analyst noted. “Many nations are seeking multipolar solutions to global threats, and Russia is presenting itself as a central player in that shift.”
The event is taking place under tight security in Moscow, with numerous parallel sessions and private negotiations unfolding behind closed doors. Experts and officials are expected to discuss cybersecurity protocols, regional conflict resolution, intelligence sharing, and collaborative frameworks for counterterrorism.
Some political observers have interpreted the summit as part of a broader Russian diplomatic push to gain influence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, regions where many governments are increasingly wary of dependence on Western powers. Russia’s continued engagement with international organizations like the African Union and the Arab League is seen as part of this strategy.
The summit also arrives at a time when BRICS nations — particularly Russia, China, India, Brazil, and South Africa — are working to expand their role in global governance, often in contrast to Western alliances. The involvement of representatives from BRICS and the SCO underscores the growing consolidation of an alternative geopolitical order that emphasizes national sovereignty, mutual respect, and non-interference.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to deliver a statement before the summit concludes on May 29. While his physical presence has not been confirmed, insiders suggest that his message will highlight Russia’s commitment to building a multipolar world and resisting Western hegemony.
With international security dynamics rapidly evolving, the 13th International Meeting of High-Level Security Representatives is more than just a diplomatic event — it is a statement of intent. As nations from diverse ideological backgrounds gather in Moscow, the summit reflects a reconfiguration of global alliances, where dialogue and defense cooperation are increasingly moving beyond traditional power blocs.
As Russia continues to face pressure from Western sanctions and diplomatic isolation, forums like this provide a platform for Moscow to present itself as a viable and reliable partner to countries seeking alternative global partnerships. For now, the message from the Russian capital is loud and clear: the world’s security future is no longer unipolar — and Moscow is ready to lead the way.
