Consultations between the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs: Strengthening cooperation in 8 areas
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssef, received the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov, and his accompanying delegation, as part of the annual high-level consultations between the African Union and Russia at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa.
The consultations confirmed the growing partnership between Africa and Russia, based on mutual respect, sovereign equality, and common interests.
Expand cooperation in trade and investment
Discussions between the two sides focused on expanding cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, technology, food security, public health, and manufacturing, in support of “Agenda 2063” and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

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The two sides also exchanged views on peace and security issues, Africa-led solutions to conflicts, the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2719, Security Council reform in line with the “Ezulwini Consensus,” and the promotion of multilateral cooperation.
Lavrov confirms Russia's support for the existence of the UN Security Council
Minister Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's support for a more representative and equitable Security Council, including ensuring permanent representation for Africa.
He praised Africa's economic progress, supporting the Chairperson's call to enhance the added value of African agricultural products and mineral resources. He also reiterated Russia's support for strengthening the institutional framework of the African Union, including the African Humanitarian Agency and the African Medicines Agency.
Both the Chairperson of the Commission and Minister Lavrov reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between the African Union and Russia, and to working towards the successful preparation of the third Russia-Africa Summit scheduled to be held in October this year.



