The Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum opened Saturday in Cairo, bringing together representatives from Russia, more than 50 African nations and several regional organizations.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, speaking on behalf of President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, said the gathering reflects the continued development of Russia-Africa ties and aims to advance shared interests while promoting security, stability and development across the continent.
He said reforming the international order must be based on justice and balance, arguing that Africa’s demographic, economic and political weight warrants a stronger voice in shaping global decisions. Abdelatty also stressed the importance of regular political dialogue between African states and international partners to build trust and coordinate positions on key issues.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, representing President Vladimir Putin, said African countries have significant economic and human potential and play an increasingly important role in global affairs. He said Russia places special importance on strengthening partnerships with African nations based on mutual respect.
Lavrov said Moscow continues to support African countries in bolstering national security, addressing food insecurity, combating terrorism and extremism, and responding to environmental disasters and major epidemics.