The Third Russia-Africa Summit Kicks Off in Moscow
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Moscow, October 28, 2026 — The third "Russia-Africa" Summit began today in the Russian capital, Moscow. The event is attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Chairperson of the African Union (represented by the President of Burundi, Évariste Ndayishimiye), and the Chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council, Mohamed al-Menfi, alongside heads of state and government from 48 African nations. The summit aims to discuss the development of the partnership between the two sides and to expand the horizons of cooperation to realize shared aspirations.
The agenda for the first day of the two-day summit focuses on sectors including the economy, agro-industry, education, medicine, artificial intelligence, technological cooperation, energy dialogue, nuclear technologies, and media. It also covers coordination and cooperation within international forums, with the day’s proceedings set to conclude with a plenary session.
In his opening remarks, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia views Africa as a development partner rather than a resource to be exploited. He stressed that Russian companies do not employ colonial-era tactics in Africa; instead, they contribute to the continent's development.
Putin stated that Africa, with its abundant natural resources and economic potential, is well-positioned to become a global hub for both the economy and politics. He expressed Moscow’s readiness to support Africa through technical expertise and to strengthen cooperation in areas such as energy, industry, transportation, agriculture, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
He further noted that Russian grain and fertilizers reach more than 40 African countries, and that Russia has exported 13 million tons of food products to the continent during the first nine months of this year. He also highlighted that over 30 energy projects are currently underway across 16 African nations. The Russian President explained that the leaders will examine a joint action plan to deepen economic and investment partnerships. This plan includes developing infrastructure and transport corridors, improving food security, and expanding cooperation in technology and digital services—all aimed at strengthening the sovereignty of African nations and reducing their reliance on external systems.
On the sidelines of the summit, the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum will be held at the Gostiny Dvor complex in Moscow. Centered on the theme "Working Together to Develop Mutually Beneficial Cooperation and Strengthen the Capabilities of Each African Nation," the forum will see the participation of approximately 4,000 Russian and African business leaders.
The first Russia-Africa Summit took place in the Russian city of Sochi in October 2019, while the second summit was held in St. Petersburg in July 2023.
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