African leaders and representatives from across the continent are expected in Moscow for the Russia–Africa Summit on October 28 and 29, as Russia seeks to strengthen its political and economic partnerships with African countries. Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said 48 African countries had confirmed their participation. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend alongside Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who currently chairs the African Union. The two leaders are expected to co-chair the meeting.
Discussions are expected to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, energy, investment and other areas of mutual interest. The gathering also offers African governments an opportunity to discuss economic partnerships and their priorities in relations with Moscow. Russia has been seeking to deepen its engagement with African countries through diplomatic ties, commercial agreements, energy cooperation and security partnerships. For participating countries, the challenge will be translating political commitments into practical projects that support economic growth and development.
The summit coincides with another major energy meeting in Moscow. On October 27, the Russian capital is scheduled to host the eighth summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), bringing together representatives of major gas-producing nations. The forum is expected to examine developments in global gas markets and explore cooperation among producers as countries navigate changing energy demand, supply security and international market conditions. The two meetings place Africa–Russia relations and global energy cooperation at the center of diplomatic discussions in Moscow this week.
