Russia-Africa cooperation has huge potential – Lavrov
Russia sees significant opportunities for strengthening cooperation with Africa, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told MPs in the State Duma on Wednesday.
Speaking on Russia’s foreign policy priorities and initiatives, Lavrov emphasized that Moscow is working with African nations to realize the vast potential of their partnership, which diminished following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
“We had other priorities, but now we are returning to duly appreciate our African friends, just as they value our contribution to liberation from colonial oppression. Our prospects are very, very good. We must actively and without delay take advantage of them,” the top diplomat said.
As part of its diplomatic expansion, Russia intends to open embassies in seven African countries by 2026. Lavrov listed Gambia, Liberia, Comoros, Niger, Sierra Leone, Togo, and South Sudan as the locations for the new missions, describing the number as “significant” in fostering closer relations with the continent. In addition, Russia is considering expanding the number of trade missions across Africa.
Russia has recently proposed that the UN designate December 14 as the International Day of Struggle against Colonialism. Lavrov recalled that in December 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution titled ‘Eradication of Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations’. He stated that the next step should be to recognize the historical significance of December 14, 1960, when the UN adopted the declaration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples.
On February 4, at the inauguration of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s new Department of Partnership with Africa, Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to “strengthening Africa’s position in a multipolar world,” aligning with the principles of the UN Charter.
“The collective voice of African countries in world affairs is becoming louder and clearer,” the minister stated.
