Libyan President Mohamed al-Menfi, currently serving as the head of the Arab Maghreb Union, attended a meeting of African organizational leaders in Moscow, Russia, on October 28, 2026. The meeting, held at the Kremlin, brought together leaders from various African organizations, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who is also the current African Union chairman.

In his address to the meeting, al-Menfi emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as food security, energy, financing, climate change, and technological disparities. He stressed that these challenges require a balanced and fair international response that respects national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Al-Menfi highlighted Libya's potential to serve as a bridge between Africa and Europe, leveraging its strategic location to foster cooperation and economic growth. He expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration between the Arab Maghreb Union and Russia, citing areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure development, and transportation.

The Libyan president also underscored the importance of security and stability in achieving development goals, noting that the fight against terrorism and organized crime requires effective international coordination. He reiterated Libya's commitment to African solutions to African problems, while emphasizing the need for international support.

Al-Menfi's participation in the meeting was part of a broader engagement with international leaders, including a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation. The two leaders reportedly discussed ways to strengthen ties between Libya and Russia, particularly in the energy sector.

The meeting of African organizational leaders was part of a larger forum on Russia-Africa relations, which aimed to promote economic cooperation and strategic partnerships between Russia and African countries. The forum provided a platform for leaders to discuss key issues affecting the continent, including economic development, security, and international cooperation.

In a statement, al-Menfi reaffirmed Libya's commitment to working with international partners to address global challenges and promote economic development. He emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with countries like Russia, which can provide valuable support and expertise in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and trade.

Key points

  • Mohamed al-Menfi participates in a meeting of African organizational leaders in Moscow, Russia.
  • The meeting focuses on promoting economic cooperation and strategic partnerships between Russia and African countries.
  • Al-Menfi emphasizes Libya's potential to serve as a bridge between Africa and Europe, leveraging its strategic location to foster cooperation and economic growth.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.