Russia-Africa summit adopts partnership plan as Putin seeks trade growth

The third Russia-Africa Summit concluded in Moscow with leaders adopting a 2027-2029 partnership action plan and pledging closer economic and political cooperation, while Russian President Vladimir Putin called for trade between Russia and African countries to reach $50 billion. Putin said trade exceeded $27 billion in 2025 and described doubling it as an ambition. The figure and target reflect his remarks at the summit; the reports do not establish that the goal has been achieved or set a deadline for it. One account said the 2025 total was 2.4% below the 2024 figure. The October 28-29 gathering brought delegations from 48 African countries. A joint statement said 21 delegations were led by heads of state, while other reports put the number of participating heads of state at 22. The summit adopted three documents: its declaration, a declaration on civilian applications of artificial intelligence and the 2027-2029 Russia-Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan. Putin said Russian companies were interested in moving some production to African countries amid sanctions on Russian businesses. He did not identify companies, destinations or a timetable. He also said African governments...