Why is Russia in Africa?

 

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Russia's Expanding Role in Africa: A Quest for Allies, Multipolarity, and Economic Engagement

Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent summit with African leaders in St. Petersburg marks a significant milestone in Russia's growing engagement with the African continent. 

The two-day summit saw representatives from 49 countries, including 17 heads of state, coming together to discuss crucial issues ranging from fostering a multipolar world order to countering neocolonialism and addressing the global food crisis. 

Putin's strategic initiatives and promises have unveiled Russia's intentions to deepen its ties with Africa, gain allies, and assert its presence on the international stage despite facing international isolation over its actions in Ukraine. 

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Growing Attention to Africa 

President Putin opened the summit by emphasizing that Russia's attention to Africa is steadily growing. 

This statement reflects the Kremlin's open efforts in recent years to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with African nations. 

Putin's ambitions go beyond just fostering political relations; he aims to revive Soviet-era investments in Africa by building "plants, factories, and increasing diplomatic missions on the continent." 

This renewed focus presents Africa as the "new center of power," with its political and economic role growing exponentially.

Countering Neocolonialism and Illegitimate Sanctions 

In line with Russia's objectives to promote a multipolar world order, African leaders joined hands with Putin to oppose all forms of international confrontation on the continent. 

They expressed joint determination to counter neocolonialism, which has long plagued African nations. 

Putin's assurance to provide debt write-offs and free grain to six African countries demonstrates his intent to combat the effects of neocolonial practices and alleviate the global food crisis. 

Russia's Food Aid Amidst Grain Deal Withdrawal 

President Putin's announcement of free grain to African nations came nearly a week after Russia's withdrawal from a grain deal that allowed Ukraine, one of the world's largest grain producers, to export its products across the Black Sea. 

The suspension of this deal raised concerns about global food shortages and increasing food prices. 

Putin attributed higher food prices and inflation to Western actions and the changing global economic system. 

Despite the withdrawal from the grain deal, Putin assured African leaders that Russia would continue to supply grain crops to its allies, both on contractual and gratuitous bases. 

Africa's Call for Peace in Ukraine

While the summit primarily focused on strengthening Africa-Russia ties, African leaders also used the opportunity to press Putin to support their peace plan for ending the conflict in Ukraine. 

African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat, along with other African leaders, urged Putin to work towards justice and reason to end the war. 

They stressed the importance of restoring energy and grain supplies to stabilize global food prices, demonstrating their concern for the repercussions of the Ukrainian conflict on the continent. 

Russia's Quest for African Allies 

Russia's initiatives towards Africa reflect a strategic quest for allies. The Kremlin aims to counterbalance its international isolation caused by its actions in Ukraine by fostering alliances with African nations. 

Through diplomatic and economic offensives, Russia has presented itself as a bulwark against Western imperialism and neocolonialism, hoping to draw African countries into its camp. 

Economic Engagement and Debt Relief

One of the cornerstones of Russia's plan for Africa is economic engagement. Putin pledged to wipe out the debts of African countries and improve cooperation on aid, energy, and trade. 

The use of national currencies for commercial transactions is also under consideration to strengthen financial ties between Russia and Africa. 

Acknowledging Historical Ties 

During the summit, many African leaders expressed gratitude for Russia's support during their 20th-century liberation struggles. 

The final declaration promised Russia's assistance in seeking compensation for the damages caused by colonial rule and recovering plundered cultural treasures. 

The leaders of Mali and the Central African Republic, whose governments have benefited from the services of Russia's Wagner Group, particularly praised Russia for its contributions. 

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Laslty:

The St. Petersburg summit between Russia and African leaders showcased Russia's determined efforts to strengthen its presence in Africa. 

Through economic engagements, debt relief, and pledges of grain supplies, Putin sought to solidify alliances and counter the impact of international isolation. 

Furthermore, the joint declaration to foster a multipolar world order and fight neocolonialism signals Russia's commitment to a more balanced and just global order. 

As Africa's political and economic role continues to grow, the continent becomes an increasingly vital player on the world stage, and Russia's overtures mark a decisive step towards forging lasting partnerships in the region.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)