Article by President Vladimir Putin “Russia and Africa: Joining Efforts for Peace, Progress and a Successful Future“

Vladimir Putin poses with African heads of states for the first Russia-Africa summit in Sochi, Russia. Image from CNN
In his article published on Monday ahead of the summit in St Peteresburg, President Vladimir Putin discusses the longstanding and stable partnership between Russia and African nations. Titled “Russia and Africa: Joining Efforts for Peace, Progress and a Successful Future,” he emphasizes Russia’s support for African countries in their struggle for liberation from colonial oppression and their right to self-determination.
President Putin highlights the importance of a non-discriminatory agenda for cooperation, with a focus on economic ties, human resource capacity building, and humanitarian assistance. He expresses Russia’s willingness to replace Ukrainian grain exports to Africa and reaffirms the commitment to strengthening economic integration and free trade in the African continent. Putin also invites young Africans to the World Youth Festival in Sochi and looks forward to the second Russia-Africa Summit, aiming to adopt comprehensive agreements and foster fruitful dialogue for the benefit of both Russia and Africa.