Putin Says Russia Expands Diplomatic Presence Across Africa
Addressing the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, Putin also noted that African nations were increasing their diplomatic representation in Russia.
"I'd like to mention the systematic steps taken by the Russian side to expand its diplomatic presence on the continent. Since the previous summit in 2023, eight new Russian embassies have begun work in African states, and their total number has reached 48," he said.
Putin welcomed plans by Botswana, Seychelles and Togo to establish embassies in Moscow.
"We also know of the intentions of Botswana, Seychelles, and Togo to open their embassies in Moscow in the near future and, naturally, we support this," he said.
Beyond diplomatic expansion, the Russian president highlighted efforts to strengthen Moscow’s economic engagement with African countries, including through its network of trade missions.
"So far, there are only six of them, but their activities cover 16 African countries," he said.
Putin also reported rising Russian mineral fertilizer exports to Africa, saying deliveries reached approximately 1.5 million tons last year and had already surpassed 2.2 million tons this year.
On financial cooperation, he said the Russian ruble now accounts for as much as 85% of commercial transactions between Russia and African countries.
“The share of the ruble in Russian-African commercial transactions already stands at up to 85%. This makes it possible to protect our economic exchanges from external influence,” he said.
Putin added that Russia was interested in moving certain production operations to African countries in response to external pressure, while stressing that African governments must retain full sovereignty over their decisions.
The third Russia-Africa summit is taking place in Moscow alongside the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum.
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