Russian President Vladimir Putin has assured African countries of Moscow’s continued commitment to regional cooperation aimed at fostering development and advancing mutual political interests, while reaffirming Russia’s historic contributions to the continent’s liberation from colonial rule.
President Putin made the remarks during a ceremonial reception for ambassadors presenting their letters of credence, including representatives from Ghana, Somalia, Gabon, Senegal, Rwanda, Mauritania, Algeria, and Namibia among a total of 32 envoys. He emphasized that Russia’s engagement with Africa is grounded in genuine partnership, sharply contrasting perceptions that Kremlin-Africa relations are driven by ulterior motives.
“The foundations of these relations were forged during the period when African nations were fighting for freedom and independence. Our country made a significant contribution to liberating African states from colonial oppression, to establishing their statehood, to developing their national economies and social sectors, as well as to the training and equipping of their armed forces.” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened global scrutiny of Russia-Africa relations, with critics often characterizing the partnership as opportunistic. Putin’s address seeks to reaffirm Moscow’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s sovereignty, development, and regional stability.
Highlighting the enduring nature of Moscow’s relationship with the continent, Putin noted that these historical contributions have empowered African states to determine their own paths, develop key economic sectors, and build capable military forces to safeguard territorial integrity.
Russia’s engagement with Africa has been reinforced through a series of high-level diplomatic gatherings. President Putin highlighted the Russia–Africa Summits in Sochi and St. Petersburg, where leaders and ministers from across the continent convened to discuss deepening political, economic, and security cooperation. These summits provided a platform to strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships, promote trade and investment, and coordinate efforts on regional stability and development initiatives.
In addition, the ministerial conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum held in Cairo last month served as a key forum for reviewing progress on previous agreements and preparing the ground for future collaboration. Preparations are already underway for the third Russia–Africa Summit, which is expected to further consolidate Moscow’s strategic engagement with Africa, advancing mutual interests in governance, infrastructure, trade, and security across the continent.
He further reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to Africa’s economic and political advancement through mutually beneficial political, economic, and cultural cooperation, underscoring active support for the continent’s participation in international forums and global decision-making.
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