Putin says sanctions won’t deter Russia from supporting African countries

President Vladimir Putin has stated that sanctions imposed on Russia will not prevent the Eastern European nation from offering support to African countries.

Speaking at the ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi, Putin emphasised that his administration is dedicated to enhancing partnerships across the continent, highlighting numerous areas where Moscow is prepared to extend assistance.

“I would like to confirm that our country will continue providing comprehensive support to our African friends in various areas related to sustainable development, such as fighting terrorism and extremism, addressing epidemics and diseases, tackling food security, and overcoming the aftermath of natural disasters,” he said.

Putin reiterated that Russia attaches special importance on strengthening friendly ties with African countries, noting that both sides share common aspirations for building a just, multipolar world order characterised by equality.

He stated that the world must be freed “from any forms of discrimination, dictatorships, or the pressure of sanctions,” praising African nations for resisting the pressure to “isolate” his country.

“African countries are enjoying a growing presence on the global stage; they pursue a peace-loving foreign policy and play an increasingly significant role in vital international issues,” he said.

Putin described the cooperation between the Russian Federation and African states as becoming “richer and more versatile.”

“This is confirmed by the agenda of the two-day ministerial conference. The heads of foreign policy agencies will not only consider various aspects of implementing the action plan for the partnership forum from 2023 to 2026, but will also outline new promising areas for mutually beneficial cooperation,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov

African leaders attending the conference expressed gratitude to President Putin for his ongoing efforts to strengthen relations with Africa, as demonstrated through initiatives such as hosting major partnership forums.

The President of Mauritania and Chairperson of the African Union, Mohamed Ould Cheikh Mohamed Ahmed Ould Ghazouani, stated, “We need to work hard to strengthen our relationship between Africa and Russia. This relationship continues to be built on mutual respect and mutual interests. This is something we see in Russia. Russia is a major partner in strengthening African economies.”

Ghazouani noted that the outcomes and vision of the first Russia-Africa Summits held last year and in 2019 will provide a strong foundation for enhancing cooperation between the two parties. He mentioned that the various initiatives proposed during these forums also aim to deepen their collaboration.

“This event is taking place at a time when the world faces significant challenges. These challenges call for unity in our efforts. They require us to take urgent steps to counter those who seek to impose their rules and make decisions, including in the political and economic dimensions,” he said.

“The agenda for 2023-2026 furthers the strengthening of African economies. It also outlines future priorities for the development of the African continent, particularly the goals we have set for ourselves in terms of development,” added the AU Chairperson.

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