May 25, 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has conveyed warm wishes to African Heads of State and Government on the occasion of Africa Day, commending the continent’s progress and reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to deepening cooperation.

Putin described Africa Day as a symbol of the continent’s victory over colonialism and its pursuit of freedom, peace, and prosperity.

He noted that African nations have achieved “impressive results in the economy and social affairs” and are playing an increasingly prominent role in addressing global challenges.

He also praised the African Union and sub-regional organisations for advancing integration and developing mechanisms to respond collectively to conflicts and crises.

The Russian leader underscored the importance of strengthening traditional ties of friendship with Africa, stressing shared aspirations for a multipolar world order based on equality, international law, and freedom from discrimination.

Looking ahead, Putin expressed confidence that the upcoming Third Russia–Africa Summit, scheduled for October in Moscow, will “outline new perspectives for promoting mutually beneficial cooperation” across various sectors.

He said he looks forward to welcoming African leaders to the summit, which aims to elevate relations to a new level of partnership.

Russia–Africa cooperation has deep roots dating back to the Organisation of African Unity’s founding in 1963, with Moscow supporting liberation movements, education, and major infrastructure projects. Over the decades, this partnership has expanded into energy, mining, military cooperation, and nuclear technology.

Russia–Africa Cooperation Since 1963

Early Solidarity (1960s–1970s)

• Support for liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique, Guinea‑Bissau, Namibia, and South Africa.
• Diplomatic backing for Egypt during the 1956 Suez Crisis.
• Scholarships for African students at Soviet universities, including Patrice Lumumba University (now Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia). Over 60,000 Africans studied in the USSR between 1960–1991.

Major Development Projects (1960s–1980s)

• Aswan High Dam and Helwan Iron & Steel Factory in Egypt.
• Capanda Hydroelectric Plant in Angola.
• Bauxite mining in Kindia, Guinea.
• El Hadjar Steel Plant in Algeria.
• Mfouati mining plant in Congo.
• Diamou cement plant and Kalana gold mine in Mali.
• Assab oil refinery in Ethiopia.
• Ajaokuta Steel Mill in Nigeria.

Educational & Human Capital Development

• Soviet scholarships produced generations of African doctors, engineers, and political leaders.
• Alumni include former presidents of Angola, Mozambique, and Mali.

Post‑Cold War Engagement (1990s–2000s)

• Russia maintained ties with African states through technical cooperation agreements and debt relief.
• Renewed focus on energy and mining concessions, especially in Guinea, Sudan, and South Africa.

Contemporary Cooperation (2010s–Present)

• Russia–Africa Summits launched in 2019 (Sochi), followed by 2023 (St. Petersburg), with the next scheduled for October 2026 in Moscow.
• Military cooperation agreements signed with 43 African countries.
• Expansion into nuclear energy partnerships: agreements with 20 African states, including plans for nuclear plants in Egypt and Nigeria.
• Growing presence in mining and energy markets, alongside private military contractors and information campaigns.