Zain ul Abideen
In late July, St Petersburg will host the second Russia-Africa Summit and Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, bringing together heads of state, government officials, entrepreneurs, academia, and public figures. As we approach these gatherings, I wish to present my vision for the future of Russia-Africa relations, highlighting key areas of cooperation for the 21st century.
The partnership between Russia and Africa has deep historical roots and has always been characterized by stability, trust, and goodwill. Russia has consistently supported African nations in their fight for liberation from colonial oppression, aiding in the development of statehood and strengthening sovereignty and defense capabilities. Considerable efforts have been made to establish sustainable foundations for national economies. In collaboration with our specialists, over 330 major infrastructure and industrial facilities were constructed in Africa by the mid-1980s, including power plants, irrigation systems, and industrial and agricultural enterprises that continue to contribute significantly to the continent’s economic growth. Furthermore, tens of thousands of African doctors, technical specialists, engineers, officers, and teachers have received education in Russia.
It is important to underscore the close cooperation between Russia and Africa on the world stage. The USSR and subsequently Russia have steadfastly supported African countries in international forums. We have consistently adhered to the principle of “African solutions to African problems,” standing in solidarity with Africans in their pursuit of self-determination, justice, and their legitimate rights. Our approach has never involved imposing our own ideas about internal structures, governance, development goals, or methods on our African partners. We continue to respect the sovereignty of African states, their traditions, values, and their desire to shape their own destinies and foster relationships with other nations.
The friendship and cooperation between Russia and African countries are founded on trust, mutual support, and respect. Our common goal is to establish a system of relations based on international law, respect for national interests, and the indivisibility of security. We recognize the central coordinating role of the United Nations in addressing global challenges.
As we look to the future, it is essential to further expand cooperation between Russia and Africa in various sectors. Economic collaboration should be at the forefront, exploring opportunities for investment, trade, and technology transfer. Strengthening energy partnerships can play a crucial role in meeting Africa’s growing demand for sustainable energy sources. Additionally, focusing on infrastructure development and modernization can boost economic growth and improve the lives of people across the continent.
Education and capacity-building initiatives will remain integral to our cooperation. Offering scholarships and training programs for African students and professionals will contribute to human capital development and expertise exchange between Russia and Africa. This investment in education will empower African nations to address their unique challenges and drive sustainable development.
Furthermore, addressing global challenges like climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates international collaboration. Russia and Africa can work together to enhance healthcare systems, facilitate access to vaccines, and promote joint research and development in medical sciences.
The upcoming Russia-Africa Summit provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen and diversify the collaboration between Russia and African countries. Building on our historical ties and shared principles, we can create a future of mutual prosperity, stability, and cooperation. By fostering inclusive partnerships and prioritizing development initiatives, we can pave the way for a promising and vibrant relationship that benefits both regions and contributes to global peace and prosperity.
The current partnership between Russia and Africa holds significant importance in the ever-changing global landscape. As economic and political power centers assert themselves, a new multipolar world order is emerging, promising a more just and democratic framework. Africa, alongside Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, will rightfully claim its place in this new world order, breaking free from the shadows of colonialism and neo-colonialism.
Russia embraces the growing international influence of individual states and the African continent as a whole. It supports their endeavors to be heard and actively participate in shaping the world’s destiny. Africa’s challenges and aspirations deserve due recognition, and Russia stands for granting the continent a rightful place in global decision-making bodies like the UN Security Council and the G20. Reforming financial and trade institutions to accommodate African interests is a shared goal.
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However, the global situation remains unstable, with long-standing conflicts intensifying and new threats emerging. Africa bears a disproportionate burden of these challenges. In such a complex environment, collaboration between Russia and Africa becomes crucial to establish a non-discriminatory agenda for cooperation. The first Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019 laid the foundation for strategic areas of interaction, backed by the establishment of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum. Bilateral intergovernmental commissions have been formed to foster trade, economic, scientific, and technological cooperation with several African countries. Efforts are underway to expand the network of Russian embassies and trade missions in Africa, further solidifying economic ties.
It is gratifying to witness the growth in Russia’s trade turnover with African nations, which reached nearly 18 billion US dollars in 2022. However, there is much untapped potential for trade and economic partnership. Russian companies express interest in engaging more actively with the continent in high technologies, geological exploration, the fuel and energy complex (including nuclear power), the chemical industry, mining, transport engineering, agriculture, and fishery. The ever-changing world necessitates finding solutions related to establishing new transport and logistical chains, forming a safe and robust monetary and financial system, and devising mechanisms for mutual settlements free from adverse external influences.
To unleash the full potential of Russia-Africa cooperation, it is essential to focus on high-tech exchanges, investments in sustainable energy, and the development of vital sectors such as agriculture and transportation. Collaborating on innovative projects will lead to mutual benefits and contribute to Africa’s socioeconomic growth. Moreover, this cooperation should be guided by the principles of equality, respect for sovereignty, and transparent engagement.
As we move forward, Russia and Africa have the opportunity to shape a future of mutual prosperity and stability. By nurturing a strategic and dynamic partnership, both regions can tackle global challenges effectively and forge a path towards a more inclusive and interconnected world. Embracing the spirit of cooperation, Russia and Africa have the potential to foster enduring relationships built on shared goals, respect, and a commitment to shaping a brighter future for all.
In conclusion, the Russia-Africa partnership signifies a crucial step towards a more just and democratic world order. As both regions strive to strengthen economic ties and explore new opportunities, it is essential to focus on enhancing communication and collaboration. Emphasizing transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes will further solidify the trust and goodwill between Russia and Africa. Leveraging technological advancements and promoting sustainable practices will pave the way for long-term prosperity and mutual benefit. By continuously working together on common goals and addressing global challenges, this partnership can forge a brighter future for the people of both regions and contribute to a more balanced and equitable global landscape.
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