Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with editors-in-chief of African media outlets on October 27, 2026, in Moscow, on the sidelines of the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit. The meeting, part of the Russia-Africa Media Forum, focused on cooperation in media, the use of artificial intelligence, and other new technologies. Lavrov expressed Russia's support for developing cooperation and exchanging experiences in utilizing modern technologies.
Lavrov highlighted that relevant sections on media cooperation are included in the joint action plan adopted three years ago at the Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg. He also mentioned that a new plan for 2027-2029, which will be discussed and adopted during the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, includes a corresponding section. According to Lavrov, the emergence of new digital technologies and artificial intelligence presents more opportunities.
However, Lavrov noted that these technologies can also be used to produce false information. He emphasized that Russia is ready to support African friends in mastering new technologies, just as it did during the Soviet era. This support includes helping to create new industries, establish relevant personnel training, and share Russian experience.
In response to a question on ensuring equitable coverage of African perspectives in international news, Lavrov stated that defending a equal place in the international media space requires daily efforts at individual, enterprise, and inter-state levels. He noted that governments must seek to introduce their media outlets into other countries' markets.
Lavrov highlighted that Russian media outlets operate in 44 African countries and provide objective information, offering an opportunity to balance news and evaluations from other parts of the globe. The Russia-Africa Media Forum, held in Moscow from October 26 to 29, brings together representatives of major Russian and African media outlets.
The forum's participants will discuss the role of majority global countries in the media world, explore the prospects of developing media resources as a tool to combat disinformation, and address the issue of decolonizing media content. TASS is the information partner of the forum.
The 3rd Russia-Africa Summit and the Russia-Africa Media Forum demonstrate Russia's commitment to strengthening ties with Africa. With 46 media outlets participating, the event provides a platform for Russian and African media professionals to engage in dialogue and explore opportunities for cooperation.
Key points
- Russia pledges to support Africa in mastering new technologies, including artificial intelligence.
- The 3rd Russia-Africa Summit and Media Forum aim to strengthen Russia-Africa ties and promote cooperation in media and technology.
- Russian media outlets operate in 44 African countries, providing objective information to balance international news.
