Kremlin: Trade between Russia and African countries exceeds $27 billion
Russian Presidency announces trade volume with African countries and preparations for the third summit in Moscow
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Moscow, October 26 (KUNA) -- The Russian Presidential Administration announced on Monday that the volume of trade between Russia and African countries exceeded $27 billion in 2025, representing a 1.5-fold increase compared to 2023. It noted that the third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled to be held in Moscow on October 28 and 29, aims to expand economic, trade, and investment cooperation between the two sides.
In a comprehensive press briefing, Russian Presidential Assistant Yuri Ushakov stated that the third Russia-Africa Summit and its accompanying economic and humanitarian forum present an opportunity to explore ways to develop bilateral relations and broaden areas of cooperation. He clarified that 48 countries have confirmed their participation, with 22 of them represented at the highest level, and invitations have been extended to approximately 4,000 entrepreneurs.
Ushakov added that participants will approve a joint action plan covering the period up to 2029, and a package comprising 33 documents and agreements will be signed, including an agreement on cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence. He pointed out that the two main plenary sessions will take place on October 29.
He explained that Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on October 28 with the heads of leading African organizations. Putin will also participate in the first plenary session alongside the President of Burundi, where he will address in his speech the growing role of African countries, the prospects for trade and investment cooperation, joint projects, and his vision for a multipolar world order.
The visit program includes a series of bilateral meetings with African leaders and officials. On Wednesday, these will include meetings with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and the President of the Republic of the Congo. On Thursday, meetings will be held with the leaders of Burundi, Namibia, Kenya, Sudan, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe. On Friday, Putin will hold 11 bilateral meetings, including sessions with the presidents of Ghana, Mali, Mauritania, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, as well as meetings with the President of Equatorial Guinea and the Chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council.
On the economic front, Ushakov noted that Russia continues to supply grains, fertilizers, and agricultural products to the continent. Grain exports exceeded 18 million tons in 2025, while reaching 13 million tons during the first nine months of 2026. Mineral fertilizer supplies rose from approximately 1.5 million tons in 2025 to over 2.2 million tons in 2026. Meanwhile, more than 40,000 students from African countries are studying at Russian universities.
Regarding diplomatic presence, Ushakov stated that Russia operates 48 embassies in Africa and intends to open its 49th embassy in Liberia. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with African countries in various fields, noting that agriculture and food security are key pillars in bilateral relations. (End) D.A.N. / R.J.
