Putin Proposes Expanding Russia–Africa Ties
Dragon Media News Desk
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for closer ties between Russia and African countries through a multipolar world order, economic cooperation and security partnerships. Addressing the second plenary session of the Russia–Africa Summit on October 29, he described the two sides as “natural allies.”
Putin said Russia was ready to work with African countries to defend their sovereignty, develop their economies and social sectors, and promote an international order based on international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. He said Russian companies were investing in Africa in sectors including energy, the peaceful use of nuclear power, mining, industry, transport and tourism.
Putin said Russian businesses cooperate with African partners on equal terms and reinvest their earnings in local economies. He added that they share technology and expertise, use local contractors, establish production facilities and create jobs. His remarks contrasted Russia’s approach with what he described as the exploitative practices of former colonial powers.
Presenting food security as a key area for cooperation, Putin said Russia shipped more than 18 million tonnes of grain to Africa in 2025 and a further 13 million tonnes in the first nine months of 2026. He said Russian exports of mineral fertilisers totalled about 1.5 million tonnes in 2025 and had exceeded 2.2 million tonnes so far this year. He also referred to Russian support for African agricultural projects through the UN World Food Programme and free humanitarian aid to countries in need.
On security cooperation, Putin said Russia was contributing to resolving conflicts and preventing new ones in Africa, in line with the principle of “African solutions to African problems.” He said Russia had intergovernmental agreements on military and military-technical cooperation with 45 African countries and trained African military personnel and law-enforcement officers at Russian educational institutions.
