Prior to the second Russia-Africa Summit and the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised African nations’ growing influence on the global platform.
He asserted Russia’s strong and stable historical ties with the African continent, marked by mutual respect and goodwill.
Putin wrote an article for leading African media outlets, which was shared by the Kremlin, emphasizing Russia’s steadfast support for Africa during its fight against colonial oppression.
Putin underlined that Russia’s aid in reinforcing sovereignty, defense capability, and statehood development for African nations has been consistent and that the country would continue to offer support to the nations.
The Russian president underscored the importance of respecting African states’ sovereignty and their right to self-determination.
He also noted that Russia has always upheld the principle of “African solutions to African problems,” never seeking to impose its own ideologies or strategies on its partners.
Putin continued, saying that Africa was “finally freeing itself from the bitter legacy of colonialism and neo-colonialism” and taking its “worthy place” on the world stage. He vowed to back African nations’ ambitions to express their opinions powerfully and address their own issues independently.
The president highlighted a shared commitment towards establishing relations prioritizing international law, national interests, security indivisibility, and recognizing the United Nation’s central coordinating role.
He reaffirmed Russia’s backing for Africa’s deserved representation in significant global structures like the UN Security Council and the G20. Putin also mentioned Russia’s support for transforming global financial and trade institutions to meet Africa’s needs.
The Russia-Africa Summit, which took place on July 27-28, included business meetings and panel sessions as part of the Economic and Humanitarian Forum. Nearly 50 nations participated in the summit.
