Sochi hosts first Russia-Africa Ministerial Conference to bolster strategic partnership

From November 9 to 10, 2024, Sochi will host the first Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, marking a new phase in the Russia-Africa union. This is repported by Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS.

The conference builds on the achievements of the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit and aims to translate its resolutions into actionable partnerships across political, economic, and cultural dimensions.

Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the Russian President, emphasised that the forum represents a comprehensive framework for deepening collaboration with African nations. Highlighting the declaration signed at the summit, he noted that this ministerial format will serve as a regular platform for discussions on implementing agreements with African partners.

The conference will gather influential leaders from Russia and Africa, including key African ministers, Russian and African business representatives, and experts across sectors. Topics will span trade, investment, science, education, and regional cooperation, with a particular focus on enhancing BRICS-Africa relations.

Bilateral meetings between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and African ministers will also occur, addressing pressing issues on the international and regional agendas. Notably, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has chaired preliminary consultations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and further active engagement from Egypt is expected at the ministerial level.

Representatives from 54 African nations, along with delegates from regional organisations such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community, participated in the preparatory meeting.

The anticipated discussions and collaborations at the conference are expected to yield impactful outcomes, strengthening the Russia-Africa partnership and enhancing Africa’s global influence.

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