By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted dozens of African leaders at a Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, seeking to bolster Moscow's influence across the continent.
Putin Emphasizes Partnership and Shared Goals
During a Kremlin meeting on the summit's second day, Putin said Russia and Africa are united by strong bonds of friendship and close partnership. He described them as natural allies in building a multipolar, democratic world order free from diktat and double standards, based on international law and the UN Charter. Putin recalled Soviet-era support for African anti-colonial struggles and pledged continued commitment to African sovereignty, growth, and economic strengthening.
Trade and Investment Highlights
The summit, the third since 2019, drew nearly 50 African nations, with about 20 represented by their leaders. Putin noted that Russia's trade with African countries topped $27 billion last year and vowed to expand it. He highlighted Russian investment projects in energy, mining, industrial cooperation, and logistics, asserting that Russian businesses operate with honesty, respect, and integrity, reinvesting earnings into local economies and sharing technology.
Food Security and Agricultural Exports
Putin underscored Russia's role as a major grain supplier, calling it a concrete contribution to African food security. He said Russia delivered over 18 million metric tons of grain to Africa last year and 13 million metric tons in the first nine months of this year. Mineral fertilizer exports reached approximately 1.5 million metric tons last year and have already exceeded 2.2 million metric tons so far this year.
Education, Healthcare, and Security Cooperation
The Russian leader mentioned assistance in healthcare and education, noting nearly 40,000 African students currently study at Russian universities. He emphasized Moscow's efforts to help African states maintain internal stability and security, and strengthen defense and law enforcement capabilities, citing intergovernmental military and military-technical cooperation agreements with 45 African countries.
Geopolitical Competition
As Russia competes with the United States, Europe, and China for influence in Africa, it has also relied on military contractors to extend its sway across economic, security, and political fronts.
