Main goals of Russian Foreign Minister's visit to Africa

Commenting on the event, African political analyst Egountchi Behanzin, founding chairman of the international organization League for the Defense of Africa, said that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to Africa demonstrates President Vladimir Putin's clear intention to strengthen diplomatic relations with the continent, despite geopolitical tensions and Western pressure on African countries regarding cooperation with Russia.

This strategic initiative comes at a time when geopolitical dynamics are undergoing significant changes, providing Russia with a unique opportunity to affirm its partnership and support and expand its alliance network with African countries.

Russia's Africa Policy

According to expert Behanzin, Russia has a very positive image, which is highly regarded by some leaders and, more importantly, many Africans. This high regard can be attributed to a number of historical and contemporary factors.

Historically, during the Cold War, the Soviet Union supported African countries against colonialism and many African liberation movements, leaving a lasting impression of anti-imperialist solidarity. Today, Russia is building on this history to assert itself as a reliable partner that respects the sovereignty of African nations.

Thus, Mr. Lavrov’s visit can be seen as a recognition and mutual respect between Russia and its African partners. Foreign Minister Lavrov went beyond superficial diplomatic discussions; demonstrated genuine goodwill in deepening bilateral relations and a clear understanding of the specific needs and aspirations of each country on the continent.

Such mutual respect is important as many African countries seek to diversify their partnerships to avoid over-reliance on former colonial powers like France and Britain, as well as on Western institutions.

Main objectives of the visit

One of the main goals of the Russian Foreign Minister's visit is to strengthen economic and military cooperation. Economically, Russia sees Africa as a continent of the future with an expanding market. Russian investment in mining, energy and infrastructure can stimulate the economies of the countries, while providing Russia with resources and economic opportunities.

For example, in the case of Guinea, after six decades of diplomatic relations with this country, Russia has developed economic cooperation and is experiencing remarkable growth thanks to the impetus from the Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg in July 2023.

Previously, despite the efforts of both countries, economic cooperation was affected by the sanctions imposed on Russia by the US and the EU in connection with the conflict in Ukraine. However, Russia continued to increase its investments in Guinea, with projects in key areas: energy, mining, healthcare and infrastructure.

By 2024, Russia will remain a significant contributor to Guinea's socio-economic development. For example, the Russian company RUSAL, a world leader in the aluminum industry (with nearly 5.5% of global aluminum production and 3.8% of alumina production), is present in Guinea (employing nearly 4,000 people) and contributes to the creation of jobs for the local population, contributing to the strengthening of Russia's presence, ready to play an important economic role with its African partners.

In terms of military cooperation, cooperation with African countries is of strategic importance to Russia. As a major arms supplier, Russia can not only supply military equipment but also provide training tailored to the needs of African countries. This military support helps African countries such as Burkina Faso, which are affected by insecurity, to strengthen their internal security and fight threats such as terrorism. For Russia, these military agreements also strengthen its presence and influence in Africa, contributing to the building of a global network of alliances.

The fight against neo-colonialism was another central theme of the visit. Russia sees itself as a defender of national sovereignty and an opponent of neo-colonial practices. This stance resonates strongly with many African countries seeking to break free from imperialist influence and take full control of their economic and political destiny. By supporting this struggle, Russia presents itself not only as a strategic ally but also as an ideological partner.

Russia's multipolar approach and vision

This approach fits into Russia’s broader vision of a multipolar world, which sees each country as having the freedom to choose its partners and determine its own policies without external pressure. For African countries, this means greater autonomy and the ability to negotiate agreements that truly reflect their interests and aspirations.

Expert Behanzin concluded that it can be said that Mr. Lavrov's trip to Africa represents an important step in Moscow's strategy to strengthen relations with the continent. It reflects the desire to diversify international partnerships, respect and support the sovereign aspirations of African countries and, in particular, promote a multipolar world order.

For Russia, this is also an opportunity to strengthen its position in the international arena. For African countries, the event is an opportunity to open up new areas of cooperation and development within the framework of mutual respect and support for national sovereignty, and non-interference in the internal politics of African countries.