Tunisian Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri was received by Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on October 28, 2026. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow. Zaafrani Zenzri was accompanied by several African leaders participating in the summit. The Tunisian Prime Minister also attended an official dinner hosted by President Putin in honor of African heads of state and government.

Zaafrani Zenzri's visit to Russia was a working trip from October 27 to 29, 2026, as instructed by Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti. During her visit, Zaafrani Zenzri visited the Tunisian pavilion at the Moscow exhibition, which showcased Tunisian products such as olive oil and dates. The pavilion aimed to promote Tunisian exports and tourism.

The Tunisian pavilion was organized by the Tunisian Embassy in Moscow, in collaboration with the local offices of the Tunisian National Tourism Office and the Export Promotion Center. Zaafrani Zenzri emphasized the importance of increasing commercial and economic exchanges between Tunisia and Russia. She highlighted the need to diversify Tunisian exports, particularly in industries with high added value.

Zaafrani Zenzri also toured an exhibition showcasing Russian solutions in key economic and social sectors. The exhibition featured technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and renewable energy. The Prime Minister was accompanied by African leaders and President Putin during the visit. The exhibition included projects currently being implemented by Russia in several African countries.

The Russia-Africa Summit began with the opening of the Economic and Humanitarian Forum, presided over by President Putin and Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who is also the chair of the African Union. Zaafrani Zenzri met with Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb and several African heads of government on the sidelines of the forum.

The Tunisian Prime Minister's visit to Russia aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic cooperation between the two countries. Zaafrani Zenzri's meeting with President Putin and other African leaders demonstrated Tunisia's commitment to enhancing its presence on the African continent. The Russia-Africa Summit provided a platform for African leaders to engage with Russian officials and discuss areas of mutual interest.

The outcomes of Zaafrani Zenzri's visit to Russia are expected to contribute to the growth of Tunisia's economy and enhance its international partnerships. The visit also underscored the importance of collaboration between Tunisia and Russia in various sectors. Key areas of cooperation include trade, investment, and tourism.

Key points

  • Tunisian Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri meets Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Russia-Africa Summit.
  • Zaafrani Zenzri promotes Tunisian exports and tourism at the Moscow exhibition.
  • The Russia-Africa Summit provides a platform for African leaders to engage with Russian officials.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.