In an article titled "Russia and Africa: Joining Efforts for Peace, Progress and a Successful Future," Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's support for giving African countries a significant role in both the UN Security Council and the G20. The article is published on the Kremlin website.
"Russia is pleased to witness the increasing global authority of African nations and their determination to actively address the challenges facing the continent," Putin shared.
Emphasizing Russia's commitment to constructive partnerships, Putin championed the idea of providing African countries a worthy position in global institutions that shape the world's direction.
"We firmly stand behind constructive initiatives from our partners and advocate for granting African nations a deserving place in structures that influence global affairs, such as the UN Security Council and the G20. Furthermore, we support reforms of global financial and trade institutions to align with African interests," Putin asserted.
Acknowledging the complex global landscape, which particularly affects African countries, Putin expressed concern over deepening conflicts and emerging threats in various regions.
"Regrettably, the current world situation remains far from stable, with longstanding conflicts deepening and new threats arising. Africa, more than any other region, bears the weight of global challenges," Putin observed.
Despite these challenges, Putin stressed the need to forge an inclusive cooperation agenda with African partners.
"In these trying times, we are committed to collaboratively shaping a non-discriminatory cooperation agenda with our African partners," Putin emphasized.
The article also underlined the strategic areas of cooperation, which were shaped during the inaugural Russia-Africa summit held in Sochi in late October 2019.
"The decisions made during the first Russia-Africa summit in Sochi laid the groundwork for our strategic cooperation. The Russia-Africa Partnership Forum was established to ensure their effective implementation," Putin recalled.
He pointed to the establishment of bilateral intergovernmental commissions on trade, economic, scientific and technological cooperation, along with the expansion of Russian embassies and trade missions in Africa, as examples of progress made in enhancing collaboration.
"Our efforts include the establishment of bilateral intergovernmental commissions on trade, economic, scientific and technological cooperation. We are expanding our network of Russian embassies and trade missions in Africa, while actively developing additional tools to boost economic ties and add dynamism to our cooperation," Putin highlighted.
In addition, the Russian president underscored the importance of adapting to global changes and developing resilient solutions to foster economic growth.
"The evolving global landscape demands innovative solutions in establishing new transport and logistics chains, monetary and financial systems, and mechanisms for secure and unbiased mutual settlements," Putin stated.
The second Russia-Africa summit will be held in St. Petersburg this week.
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Based on materials from TASS