The third Russia-Africa Summit is set to take place in Moscow on October 28-29, 2026, with over 30 African countries already expressing interest in participating. This event is a significant milestone in Russia's relations with the African continent, as it will determine the strategic framework for cooperation between Russia and all 54 African countries for the next three years. Mauritania, which has enjoyed diplomatic relations with Russia for over six decades, is expected to play a key role in the summit.
The Russia-Africa Summit was first proposed in 2018 and was held for the first time in Sochi in 2019. The second summit took place in St. Petersburg in July 2023, with representatives from all 54 African countries in attendance. The summit has become a regular event, with a clear agenda and expected outcomes. A new plan of action for the period 2027-2029 is expected to be adopted at the end of the summit. The summit will focus on trade, investment, and cooperation in areas such as digital technology, peaceful use of atomic energy, and food security.
Russia and Mauritania have been strengthening their ties in recent years, with a significant increase in bilateral agreements. In June 2026, the Russian Foreign Ministry and the Mauritanian Justice Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of justice. This agreement includes cooperation in areas such as combating terrorism, extremism, and cybercrime. The two countries have also agreed to sign two international treaties on extradition and the transfer of prisoners.
The two countries have also made progress in organizing political dialogue. Since April 30, 2026, an agreement has been in effect that exempts holders of diplomatic and service passports from visa requirements. This has facilitated official visits between the two countries. Consultations have also been held between the foreign ministries of the two countries, with plans to make these regular. The two countries aim to coordinate their approaches to resolving the crisis in the Middle East and ensuring security in the Sahel and Sahara regions.
Economic cooperation between Russia and Mauritania has also been growing. In July 2026, the Russian Minister of Economic Development and the Mauritanian Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of economy and investment. The two countries have agreed to develop cooperation in areas such as fishing, agriculture, and geological exploration. Russia has been operating fishing vessels in Mauritanian waters for several decades.
The Russian side has also expressed its intention to continue training Mauritanian specialists in Russia. The Russian side has proposed organizing Russian language courses in Nouakchott University, which will be taught by Russian professors. The courses will be free of charge and will start in the coming months. Over 3,500 graduates of Soviet and Russian universities are currently working in Mauritania.
The third Russia-Africa Summit is expected to be a significant event in Russia's relations with Africa. The summit will focus on economic cooperation, investment, and peace and security. The event will also provide an opportunity for Russia to strengthen its ties with Mauritania and other African countries. The summit is expected to result in a number of agreements and documents, including a new plan of action for the period 2027-2029.
Key points
- Russia and Mauritania are strengthening their ties in various fields, including justice, economy, and investment.
- The third Russia-Africa Summit is expected to be a significant event in Russia's relations with Africa.
- The summit will focus on economic cooperation, investment, and peace and security.
