On October 27, 2026, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova met with journalists and communication experts in Moscow to discuss Russia's partnership with Africa. The meeting took place on the eve of the third Russia-Africa Summit. Zakharova highlighted Russia's solidarity with African countries in their pursuit of a more just world order. She emphasized that Russia's cooperation with Africa is based on a legal framework.
The media forum of the third Russia-Africa Summit brought together over 200 participants from 46 African countries. The event, organized by RT Russia Today in cooperation with Sputnik and TASS news agencies, included Russian and African media leaders, journalists, and Union African officials. Zakharova praised the growing cooperation between African states and Russia, despite international pressure. She noted that Russia's African policy is guided by a strategic document that outlines its commitment to supporting Africa's development.
Zakharova stated that Russia's goal is to strengthen Africa's development by addressing conflicts, supporting African-led solutions, and promoting peace. She highlighted that Russia's cooperation with Africa involves multilateral and bilateral engagements, as well as regional groupings. The third Russia-Africa Summit is expected to focus on key areas, including investments, trade, payment systems, food security, transportation, culture, energy, and counter-terrorism.
Zakharova emphasized that Russia views Africans as equal partners, sharing common values such as respect for human dignity, international law, and freedom. She noted that Russia does not impose its vision on African countries but rather seeks to build on shared realities. The discussions also covered trade, education, and cultural exchanges between Russia and Africa.
The media forum addressed cooperation between Russian and African media outlets, as well as efforts to combat disinformation. Zakharova announced plans for joint broadcasting programs and journalist training initiatives, focusing on new technologies, including artificial intelligence. The goal is to promote a positive image of Africa globally.
Zakharova revealed that several agreements are expected to be signed during the summit, outlining future cooperation between Russia and Africa. These agreements will likely focus on economic, cultural, and educational exchanges. The Russia-Africa Summit aims to strengthen ties between Russia and African nations.
The third Russia-Africa Summit is set to conclude with a range of decisions aimed at shaping Africa's development future. Zakharova's address highlighted Russia's commitment to supporting Africa's aspirations for a more just world order. The summit's outcomes will be closely watched by international observers.
Key points
- Russia reaffirms its solidarity with African countries in their pursuit of a more just world order.
