Russia says committed to 'Africa's food, energy security'

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 Jul 2023 22:20

The Second Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg concluded with a shared "commitment to building a strategic partnership".

Russian President Vladimir Putin, centre, speaks during a plenary session at the Russia Africa Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia, Friday, July 28, 2023 (Donat Sorokin/TASS Host Photo Agency Pool Photo via AP)

The Second Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian Forum commenced in St. Petersburg, where Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized his country's sincere desire to build a strategic and multifaceted partnership with African nations. The summit, held from July 27 to 28, aimed to strengthen relations and explore opportunities for cooperation between Russia and Africa.

Political Will and Commitment to Cooperation

During the summit, President Putin commended African leaders for demonstrating political will, independence, and genuine interest in bolstering ties with Moscow.

The leaders' commitment to success in the Russian-African partnership was evident, reaffirming their collective dedication to unlock new areas of mutually beneficial cooperation.

Putin expressed his belief in creating a fair, democratic, and multipolar world order based on universally recognized principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. The summit successfully established a mechanism for dialogue, enabling Russia and African nations to coordinate efforts in addressing global challenges such as terrorism, extremism, and food crises.

Working Towards Food and Energy Security

The joint declaration adopted at the Russia-Africa Summit showcased the commitment of both parties to work together to ensure Africa's long-term food and energy security. The declaration emphasized countering the use of illegitimate unilateral tools and methods while advocating against approaches that harm the most vulnerable populations and undermine international food and energy security.

Russia further pledged assistance to Africa in resolving the current grain crisis, with President Putin offering to supply grain free of charge. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden and open channels for easing the crisis through cooperative efforts.

Advancing Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation

The summit resulted in the adoption of a comprehensive joint action plan for 2023-2026, with a key focus on developing cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and related sectors. Both Russia and African nations expressed their intent to organize international and regional fora on peaceful uses of nuclear energy. This step signifies a significant leap forward in expanding the collaborative potential between Russia and African countries in the field of nuclear energy.

Promoting Deeper BRICS-Africa Partnership

The second Russia-Africa Summit solidified efforts to promote deeper collaboration between Africa and BRICS. The summit also established dialogues between the African Union and Eurasian security blocs, namely the Collective Security Treaty Organization and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. These initiatives aim to foster an enhanced BRICS-Africa partnership, reinforcing the mutual interests and benefits that both regions can gain from strengthened cooperation.