African countries are exploring ways to deepen their engagement with BRICS, the coalition of emerging economies that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mikhail Bogdanov, shared insights with TASS following the first Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, underscoring Africa’s keen interest in strengthening ties with BRICS.
The conference took place from November 9 to 10 at Sirius, a federal venue near Sochi, Russia. Attended by approximately 1,500 delegates, including 45 African government ministers, the event was a platform for discussions on enhancing economic and political cooperation between Russia and African nations.
“Of course, everyone is interested … This is a fact. Here at the conference, they expressed their desire to receive a framework or form of participation in BRICS. Naturally, this is all being discussed,”
Bogdanov explained, reflecting the sentiments of numerous African representatives eager to explore pathways into the BRICS grouping.
The diplomatic tone of the gathering took on added significance in the context of Western nations’ reported attempts to discourage participation. Bogdanov remarked that despite such pressures, African leaders remain resolute in prioritizing their own national interests over external influence.
“Why succumb to this pressure if it ultimately harms their own national interests? And they understand this,”
Bogdanov emphasized, noting the growing tendency among African leaders to resist Western objections to closer Russia-Africa cooperation.
At the conference, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and other high-ranking diplomats engaged in discussions with foreign ministers and representatives from Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Mali, Uganda, Nigeria, South Africa, and other countries. During these meetings, Russia finalized agreements with the Central African Republic, Rwanda, and additional African nations to facilitate simplified visa processes for diplomats and to enhance collaboration in humanitarian and economic sectors. These efforts aim to make diplomatic exchanges smoother and encourage future joint ventures across multiple fields.
Looking ahead, Lavrov announced plans for the next Russia-Africa Ministerial Conference, set for 2025. Russia has signaled its willingness to host or attend the event in any African country selected by its partners, underscoring a commitment to equitable and flexible cooperation. This announcement follows a key decision at the Second Russia-Africa Summit held in St. Petersburg in 2023, where it was agreed that regular conferences would foster closer ties between the two regions.
“Since foreign ministries coordinate relations with other countries and organizations, our task is to ensure no delays or setbacks but rather to accelerate contacts in all areas,”
Lavrov noted, stressing the importance of maintaining momentum in Russia-Africa relations.
