At the Russia-Africa ministerial conference held in Sochi on November 9-10, Russian President Vladimir Putin committed to providing “full support” to approximately 50 African nations. This pledge encompasses various sectors, including sustainable development and counter-terrorism efforts, as Russia seeks to deepen its influence on the African continent.
During the conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov highlighted the progress in Russian-African relations, despite challenges stemming from Western opposition. Analysts note that the language used by Putin recalls Cold War dynamics, raising questions about the substance of Russia’s economic involvement in Africa.
The conference featured discussions on economic collaboration, particularly in digital development and natural resource management. While some observers question the long-term viability of Russia’s involvement, African leaders are optimistic, viewing this as a strategic partnership that could help address their developmental needs in the years to come.
