Russian President Vladimir Putin has hailed Africa as a major global economic and political power, citing its vast natural resources, demographic potential, and strategic location. At the third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit in Moscow, Putin emphasized Africa's growing importance on the world stage. The summit brought together African leaders and officials to discuss cooperation and development.
Putin noted that Africa's population is projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, with over 70% of its population under the age of 30. He highlighted the continent's average growth rate of 4.2%, surpassing the global average, and identified 12 African economies among the 70 fastest-growing worldwide. Putin described Africa as "the continent of the future."
The Russian president criticized Western countries for resisting Africa's growing influence, accusing them of using various means, including wars, tariffs, and sanctions, to maintain their dominance. He referenced a quote from former Burkinabé President Thomas Sankara, who described debt as a form of neocolonialism. Putin claimed that little has changed since 1987.
Putin announced that Russia is working to alleviate the debt burden of several African countries and advocates for a greater role for the continent in multilateral institutions. He also highlighted Russia's commitment to food security in Africa, with 30 million tons of agricultural products exported to the continent this year, valued at $4 billion.
In the energy sector, Putin mentioned over 30 projects in 16 African countries and proposed cooperation with the RusHydro group to develop new hydroelectric infrastructure. On the humanitarian front, he announced the extension of a health program until 2029, which has equipped eight states with 15 anti-epidemic laboratories and trained around 450 specialists.
Putin emphasized education as a key area of Russian-African partnership, with around 40,000 African students currently studying in Russia. He proposed creating a Russian-African youth union, highlighting the importance of future generations in realizing joint projects. The Russian president also called for a joint media space to promote objective information.
The third Russia-Africa summit was attended by over 2,000 delegates, including Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, who is participating alongside several ministers and officials. Putin invited his guests to the St. Petersburg Economic Forum in June 2027 and expressed his desire to see the adoption of a partnership plan for 2027-2029.
Key points
- Putin highlights Africa's growing economic and political influence
- Russia aims to strengthen cooperation with Africa in various sectors
- Putin criticizes Western countries for resisting Africa's growing influence
