Lavrov holds talks with foreign ministers of 31 African countries on strengthening mutually beneficial partnership

28 July 2023

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and foreign ministers from 31 African countries participating in the second Russia-Africa summit and economic and humanitarian forum held a meeting in St. Petersburg to discuss strengthening their mutually beneficial partnership and addressing international issues.

 

During the meeting, they engaged in an exchange of views on various topics related to the establishment of a new, polycentric model for the world order. They also discussed the need for reforming the United Nations to ensure fair representation for Africa in key multilateral structures, including the Security Council. Sergey Lavrov emphasized the importance of opposing the West's imposition of double standards in resolving international crises, including the situation in Ukraine, and standing together against neocolonialist approaches, while upholding historical truth and justice.

 

The ministers also paid special attention to enhancing the multifaceted, long-term and mutually beneficial partnership between Russia and African nations. Food and energy security were key topics during the discussions, and the Russian side reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its international obligations responsibly and conscientiously. Russia expressed its readiness to support African countries by exporting agricultural products, fertilizers, energy resources, and other critical supplies, including providing humanitarian assistance as needed.

 

In his opening remarks, Lavrov highlighted the summit's significance in specifying the priority areas for Russian-African cooperation and providing further momentum for their partnership in the years to come. The meeting aimed to solidify concrete plans for collaboration and bolster the already positive dynamics of the relationship between Russia and African nations.

 

 

GSV "Russia - Islamic world"

Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry

Based on materials from TASS