Photo: kremlin.ru
On the eve of the second Russia-Africa Summit and the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, scheduled for July 27-28 in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin wrote an article titled «Russia and Africa: Joining Forces for Peace, Progress and a Successful Future» for the African media. The text of the article was published on the Kremlin website, as well as translations into six languages - Arabic, English, Spanish, German, Portuguese and French.
Putin assured that Russia would continue to supply grain and fertilizers to Africa. He also said that a comprehensive declaration would be adopted following the results of the Russia-Africa summit.
«On the eve of these large-scale events, which will bring together heads of state and government, entrepreneurs, scientists and public figures, I would like to share my vision of the development of Russian-African relations with readers of the leading media on the African continent, to identify areas of cooperation that are priorities for joint work in the coming decades of the 21st century,» the head of the Russian state said in the article.
The Russian President noted that Moscow attaches great importance to the upcoming summit, at which it is planned to adopt a comprehensive declaration and other documents.
In his publication, Putin dwelled on the history of relations between the USSR and Russia with African countries, emphasizing that Moscow has always adhered to the principle of «African problems — an African solution» and has consistently supported the African peoples in their struggle for liberation from colonial oppression. He also emphasized the special importance of the partnership between Russia and Africa at the present time, when a new, more just, multipolar world order is being formed.
Putin also touched upon issues of trade and economic cooperation, noting the growth of mutual trade between Russia and Africa. He paid particular attention to the issues of food supplies to Africa and the situation around the grain deal. Putin confirmed that Russia is ready to replace Ukrainian grain on a commercial and non-reimbursable basis, especially given the expected record harvest this year. He stressed that despite the sanctions, Russia will actively work to organize the supply of grain, food and fertilizer to Africa.
In the article, Putin also touched upon the issues of personnel training, humanitarian cooperation, the development of cultural, sports and media relations, as well as the development of relations with the African Union and other regional integration associations. «