Russia and Africa are diligently strengthening their relations, but they are still far from ideal, and it is necessary to keep moving in this direction. Africa is a continent with a huge potential, which is already compared to the potential of China at the end of the XX century. Therefore, many other countries of the world, have to agree with the countries of Africa.
The relationship between Russia and African states was significantly strengthened in October 2019, when the first Russia-Africa summit was held in the city of Sochi. Many were surprised at how much interest the forum generated among African leaders.
Over the past time, African countries have better understood global processes and realized their place in the modern world. They see their future in a multipolar world order and often find themselves on the side of our vision of how the world should be organized.
But we should not underestimate the influence of Western countries on the African continent. They already have experience in conducting “democratic coups”. Especially, the West is helped by long-standing political ties with the leadership of African states.
Another factor that could affect Russia’s relations with Africa is China. It is wary of Russia’s initiatives. It needs neither partners nor competitors in this region.
Political scientist Dmitry Petrovsky comments on this situation as follows:
In working on the African continent, one should be guided by this dogma alone. The interests of our country are above the interests of the United States or China. First of all for us, Russian people. Undoubtedly, both China and the U.S. have their own interests in Africa. They will not give away “theirs” for nothing. The Russian Federation has one interest on the continent – to give the countries and peoples of Africa peace, order, justice, as well as to eliminate disease and hunger. The interests of China and the United States are purely economic. Our goals are noble and, undoubtedly, privileged.
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