In a pivotal analysis of Africa’s role in global geopolitics, Russia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with the continent, viewing it as an essential player in the emerging multipolar world. In an article titled “The African Pole of a Multipolar World” published on January 6, Alexey Drobinin, director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department of Foreign Policy Planning, underscored the strategic significance of Africa’s independence and its growing influence in global affairs.
Drobinin emphasized the necessity for Africa to assert itself as a key pillar in global power dynamics. He called for partnerships based on respect, equality, and African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges, promoting the idea that “African solutions to African problems” should guide cooperation between Russia and African countries.
This position was strongly echoed by Anatoly Bashkin, director of the Africa Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, during the ‘Russia-Africa: What’s Next?’ forum held at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations. Bashkin reiterated Russia’s support for African sovereignty and resistance to foreign impositions on African affairs, emphasizing that Russia is ready to assist the continent in achieving genuine independence.
Restoring Historic Connections
Russia’s engagement with Africa has grown significantly in recent years, following a period of declining relations after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Trade between Russia and African countries fell sharply from $5.9 billion in 1985 to just $0.98 billion by 1995, accompanied by a reduction in diplomatic missions across the continent.
However, the tide has turned. Drobinin highlighted the positive shift in recent years, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s frequent visits to African nations signaling a renewed commitment to fostering stronger bilateral ties.
Drobinin described this moment as Russia’s “return to Africa,” focusing on re-establishing lost relationships and building new ones that are mutually beneficial for both sides.
Supporting African Unity and Sovereignty
Russia’s support for Pan-Africanism remains steadfast. Drobinin praised the African Union (AU) as an essential platform for consolidating Africa’s voice on the world stage. According to Drobinin, the AU represents the continent’s collective interests, raising its profile in international discussions and advancing African unity.
Moreover, Russia has condemned the colonial legacy that has left Africa dependent on the extraction of raw materials while remaining a consumer of finished goods. Drobinin pointed out that despite Africa’s immense resources, the continent continues to face unequal trade dynamics that benefit the West, undermining its development.
A New Path Forward for Africa
Russia’s broader foreign policy strategy prioritizes closer collaboration with African countries to ensure the continent’s growth and autonomy in the global system. Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized that fostering strong, equal partnerships with Africa is a key element of Russia’s foreign policy agenda.
At the global level, Africa has emerged as a critical ally of Russia, resisting Western-backed resolutions at the United Nations and refusing to join sanctions against Russia. This shared stance further strengthens the bond between Russia and Africa, as both sides work to challenge the dominance of Western powers in global affairs.
Equal Partnerships for Shared Growth
Drobinin concluded by reiterating Russia’s commitment to assisting Africa in overcoming challenges such as neocolonial dependency and advancing its sovereignty. He stressed that Russia’s goal is to support Africa in becoming a key player in the global development arena, ensuring the continent’s rise as a strong and independent force in the multipolar world of tomorrow.
For Russia, Africa is not just a partner but a vital force in the global balance of power, and Moscow is committed to working with African nations to create a future built on equality, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.