Russian President, Vladimir Putin has pledged to deepen cooperation with African countries in trade, agriculture, infrastructure and technology.
He aaid Russia was ready to support the continent’s development through skills transfer and local production.
Putin made the pledge on Wednesday at the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
The Submit was attended by African leaders and government delegations from 48 countries, with 22 African leaders expected to hold bilateral talks with him on issues including trade, security, arms and grain supplies.
Putin said, “Africa was increasingly becoming an important player in global economic and political affairs.“
He stated that Russia supported greater African representation in international institutions.
The Russian leader criticised what he described as attempts by Western countries to exploit Africa’s resources and keep countries dependent on debt, arguing that unfavourable financing arrangements could slow long-term development.
Putin said Russia was prepared to share its expertise, including digital technology, and promote local production rather than focus solely on purchasing raw materials.
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According to him, such cooperation could create jobs, increase tax revenues and support economic growth across African countries.
Trade, Agriculture and Infrastructure
The Russian leader said Moscow was ready to pursue joint projects in transport and agricultural infrastructure and supply grain and fertiliser to more African countries.
He also expressed support for increasing Africa’s influence in the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
The summit, first held in 2019, forms part of Russia’s efforts to strengthen its political, economic and military relations with African countries.
Russian state media, cultural institutions and companies have also sought to expand their presence on the continent, including in mining and power generation.
African Leaders Highlight Cooperation
Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo, described his country’s cooperation with Russia as transparent and based on mutual interests.
Speaking to Russian state broadcaster RT, Ouedraogo said the partnership respected African languages and cultures, contrasting it with Burkina Faso’s historical relationship with France.
Russia has faced criticism from Western governments over the activities of its paramilitary forces in African countries, including allegations that they support military juntas and advance Moscow’s geopolitical interests. The Russian Government rejects such allegations.
The summit is also part of Moscow’s wider effort to strengthen ties with countries in the Global South amid continued Western pressure over Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Reuters
