Lavrov and African Union Commissioner Discuss Expansion of Russia–Africa Cooperation

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov received African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Bankole Adeoye on June 11.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the meeting focused on prospects for expanding multifaceted cooperation between Russia and the African Union. Special attention was given to preparations for the Third Russia–Africa Summit, which is scheduled to be held in Moscow in October.

During the talks, the two sides reaffirmed their mutual commitment to coordinating efforts on key global and regional issues, including within the United Nations.

They also emphasized that African countries and African institutions themselves should play the leading role in determining ways to resolve crises on the continent.

Both sides underlined that the Russia–Africa partnership is based on equality, mutual benefit, and the universally recognized principles and norms of the UN Charter.

Lavrov said Russia is ready to assist in efforts to achieve the full sovereignty of the African continent in all its dimensions. He noted that strengthening Africa’s independent decision-making capacity in political, security, economic and other fields is important for building a more balanced and just multipolar world order.

The meeting is viewed as part of continued diplomatic engagement between Russia and the African Union, as both sides seek to deepen political dialogue, strengthen multilateral coordination, and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest ahead of the upcoming Russia–Africa Summit.