Russia has reaffirmed Africa’s central role in Moscow’s foreign policy, stating that advancing ties with African countries remains an “unconditional priority” as Russia seeks to support the continent’s sovereignty and global influence in a multipolar world.
Speaking in a video address at the opening of the fourth “Russia–Africa: What’s Next?” Forum held at MGIMO University in Moscow from April 22 to 26, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that fostering relations between Russia and African countries is an absolute priority in Russian foreign policy.
“Russian-African friendship and partnership have a long history: in the past century, our country selflessly helped Africans in their courageous struggle for freedom and independence. Advancing relations with the African countries is among our unconditional priorities, and this approach is enshrined in the Foreign Policy Concept of the Russian Federation approved by President Vladimir Putin. We support the Africans’ push to be active players in international affairs. We will continue to help strengthen the continent’s position as an independent centre of power in the emerging multipolar world order.” Lavrov said.
He noted that Russian-African relations are on the rise, stating that: “Together with our African friends, we oppose modern practices of neo-colonialism. We believe it is important to combine our efforts in order to create mechanisms for economic ties and international trade services that are beyond Western control.”
The week long forum which was was organized by the Council of Young Diplomats of the Russian Foreign Ministry with support from the World Youth Festival Directorate, featured the inaugural Forum of Young Diplomats “Russia–Africa”, 50 young representatives from foreign ministries of over 20 countries.
The forum was a unique platform for establishing and strengthening the Russia-Africa dialogue, which facilitates experience exchange among leaders of the new generation on the primary aspects of Russian-African relations.
Source: Kbcko