Russia and the Arab World: Bridges of Friendship Through Business and Tourism — Exclusive Interview with Dr. Hussein Jaafar Aref

Hussein Aref: Architect of Friendship Bridges Between Russia and the Arab World Moscow – September 2025 In a distinctive interview with *Ross Media* magazine titled "Russia and the Arab World: Bridges of Friendship Through Business and Tourism," Hussein Mohamed Hussein Mustafa Jaafar Aref—Chairman of "BRICS Global," President of the International Development Fund, and head of the "Al-Aamal" (Business) platform for the Middle East—discussed his unique journey in forging partnerships between Russia and Arab nations. From his roots in Khartoum, raised in a distinguished family—his father was a military physician who established Sudan’s first military hospital (the Medical Corps)—to becoming a Russian-speaking businessman who travels across more than ten Russian regions, Aref embodies the very human bridges he seeks to build. Regarding the concept behind founding "BRICS Global," he said: "I represented BRICS interests in the Gulf and observed that the alliance's organizations were all established for mutual assistance. I decided to create a new unit to fill the missing gaps in the cooperation structure, resulting in a global platform for integration among entrepreneurs worldwide." Aref is currently spearheading the "BRICS Tech Rally 2025" international project—a massive automotive convoy set to depart from Muscat this coming November, amidst ideal weather conditions (23°C), and conclude its journey in southern Russia. The event involves Oman and several Arab Gulf states, alongside Iraq, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia. Describing the project, he stated: "We aim to unite nations and peoples and to recall the value of solidarity during challenging historical times; it is a project that blends culture, logistics, and tourism, grounded in mutual respect, the exchange of expertise, and shared spiritual values." His role extends beyond the economy to encompass the mutual promotion of tourism; he has invited Russian tourists to visit Oman’s "Green Mountain"—renowned for its fruit and breathtaking scenery—and has outlined a roadmap to attract Arab and African tourists to the Russian snow resort of Sheregesh. He concludes enthusiastically: "The best thing about Russia is its people... and I hope everyone on earth gets the chance to visit and get to know its wonderful people."