In his article dedicated to Russia-Africa relations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasizes the historical continuity of cooperation, shared values, and new geopolitical ambitions of both sides. The article was published in anticipation of the upcoming ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Cairo.

"Cairo will soon host a significant political event: leading officials and ministers from the foreign ministries of Russia and African countries will gather in the hospitable Egyptian capital to assess the state of Russia-Africa relations and outline paths for their further development," said Sergey Lavrov.

According to Lavrov, the ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum will be held for the first time on the African continent. "We are pleased that our partners supported the proposal to hold the ministerial conference in Africa in 2025. The Partnership Forum was established in 2019, and we have already successfully held two Russia-Africa summits – in Sochi in 2019 and in St. Petersburg in 2023," the Russian minister recalled.

Lavrov emphasizes that the Forum is of crucial importance for the development of relations. "The work of the Forum is essential for supporting the entire spectrum of Russia-Africa relations and naturally complements the bilateral cooperation that is dynamically developing between Russia and African countries."

In the article, the minister returns to the historical roots of the relationship:

"The African nations remember – and we appreciate this – that the Soviet Union supported their efforts to break free from colonial dependence. We are proud that this assistance was provided selflessly and with dedication," said Lavrov, recalling the role of the USSR in the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.

According to Lavrov, the collapse of the Soviet Union also had a negative impact on Africa. "As President Vladimir Putin stated, the collapse of the Soviet Union was the greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the 20th century. Its consequences were also felt by our African friends. Nevertheless, there was no 'end of history,' and today we are witnessing a new flourishing of Russia-Africa friendship."

The Foreign Minister openly expresses his support for African sovereignty. "Today, Africa is fighting for true sovereignty in all areas of life. We fully support this struggle. In the UN and other international forums, Russia actively opposes modern forms of neocolonialism," Lavrov stated.

According to him, Russia supports the efforts of Africa to act as a united force on the international stage. "Russian diplomacy will contribute to the development of Africa as an influential center in a multipolar world. We believe in the inalienable right of African states to independently choose their paths of development and their international partners."

Lavrov also quoted the words of President Putin about the trust between Russia and Africa. "We have never been involved in the exploitation of African peoples. That is why the level of trust between us is high," the minister recalled.

In the field of international politics, Russia and Africa are considered natural allies. "We are allies in the democratization of international relations based on the UN Charter. We consistently advocate for fair representation of Africa in the reform of the UN Security Council and welcome the growing role of African countries within BRICS."

Special attention was paid to security. "As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia considers peace and stability in Africa to be a key condition for its development. We support the principle of 'African solutions to African problems' and help the countries of the continent to confront terrorism and other threats."

According to Lavrov, economic cooperation is one of the main priorities. "Trade turnover between Russia and Africa has increased more than threefold since 2019, and last year exceeded $27 billion. We are convinced that this is far from the limit."

According to the minister, Russia is not seeking to exploit African resources in a one-sided manner. "We have never viewed Africa as a source of raw materials. Our goal is to invest in industrialization, infrastructure development, and improving the living standards of the population."

Lavrov also emphasized the humanitarian dimension of the cooperation. "We have delivered 200,000 tons of wheat to the most needy African countries, and we are also helping to develop local agriculture by sharing technology and know-how."

In conclusion, the minister highlighted the shared values. "Russia is a long-standing and reliable friend of Africa. The values of collectivism, solidarity, and mutual assistance are inherent to both Russian culture and the African philosophy of ubuntu – 'I am because we are'."

According to Sergey Lavrov, the ministerial meeting in Cairo will be an important step in preparing for the third Russia-Africa summit in 2026 and in further deepening the strategic partnership.

Thediplomaticsociety/gnews.cz - GH