Cairo, December 20 — The Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum convened in Cairo on December 19–20, marking the first time the gathering was held on African soil. The event brought together foreign ministers and senior representatives from 52 African nations, alongside officials from eight regional integration associations.

The highlight of the conference was a plenary session co-chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Badr Abdelatty. Opening remarks were delivered on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, underscoring the strategic importance of the partnership.

Delegates reviewed pressing issues on the international agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Russia-Africa partnership. Central to the discussions was the full implementation of the 2023–2026 Action Plan, adopted at the Second Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg in 2023. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening trade, economic, and investment ties, while exploring new opportunities in healthcare, education, and tourism.

The conference concluded with a joint statement reflecting shared approaches to global challenges and a pledge to deepen multidimensional cooperation. Preparations are already underway for the Third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for 2026.

On the sidelines, Minister Lavrov held bilateral meetings with African counterparts, resulting in several new agreements. A thematic event also showcased the potential of trilateral cooperation between Russia, Egypt, and Africa in trade, economic development, and education.