Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke in an interview to aif.ru about the upcoming second Russia-Africa summit, set to take place in July. He stressed that the discussions will center on accelerating Africa’s industrial growth and strengthening its critical infrastructure, recognizing these areas as foundational for sustainable development across the continent. The purpose is to explore practical measures that can spur African modernization while deepening bilateral partnerships with Russia through concrete projects and coordinated policy efforts.
Lavrov described the summit as a continuation of a long-standing, results-focused partnership that he characterized as the backbone of Russia’s cooperative framework with Africa. The emphasis is on pragmatic collaboration that addresses real-world needs in African economies, helping to build capabilities that can support broad-based prosperity and resilient energy, transport, and communication networks. The conversation underscores a shared view that development must be collaborative, with mutual benefits guiding each initiative.
He noted that the content of the discussions is being developed in close consultation with African partners, reflecting a collaborative process that values African perspectives and ownership. This approach aims to ensure that the agenda aligns with the continent’s priorities, including technology transfer, industrial upgrading, and the expansion of critical infrastructure. The goal is to translate talk into tangible results through joint planning and implementation.
The planned topics include technology transfer, which can empower local industries and enable knowledge sharing that accelerates innovation across sectors. Industrial development is expected to focus on scalable manufacturing, value-added production, and regional integration, while critical infrastructure will cover essential roads, energy networks, ports, and digital connectivity that connect communities and markets. These elements are seen as enabling factors for sustained economic activity and job creation.
Particular attention will be given to Russia’s role in digitizing African states and developing the energy sector, with a view toward improving reliability, efficiency, and access. Projects may involve transfer of digital technologies, capacity-building for IT ecosystems, and joint ventures that leverage Russia’s engineering expertise to modernize public services and private enterprises. In energy, discussions are expected to explore diversified sources, grid modernization, and sustainable methods to meet rising demand while curbing emissions where possible.
Russia’s involvement in agriculture and mining is also on the table, with a strategic focus on food security and energy resilience. The dialogue aims to identify pathways for cooperation that bolster agricultural productivity, supply chain stability, and responsible mining practices that benefit local communities and the broader regional economy. These efforts are presented as integral parts of a broader stability and self-reliance strategy for African nations.
Lavrov clarified that the topics listed are not exhaustive and that additional issues may emerge as the talks progress. He emphasized the flexible nature of the agenda, designed to accommodate evolving priorities and to maximize the practical outcomes of the summit for Africa and Russia alike.
In related news, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia has indicated that a broad coalition of African states will participate in the summit, highlighting the importance of inclusive dialogue and multi-lateral engagement in shaping a forward-looking partnership. The dialogue aims to chart a path toward greater cooperation, with shared interests and mutual respect guiding all discussions and planned initiatives.
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