In brief
The summit’s declaration, signed on 29 October 2026, calls on the international community to adopt a multipolar order, reform the UN Security Council to give Africa greater seats and strengthen cooperation across trade, energy, security, technology, and culture. Russian officials highlight national sovereignty and UN Charter respect, while African partners emphasize increased representation and joint counter‑terrorism efforts. The U.S. press commentary points to the growing alliance as a pillar for a new world order.
On 29 October 2026, the third Russia‑Africa Summit reached its conclusion in Moscow’s Kremlin Conference Hall, where delegates from 48 African nations—22 of them represented by heads of state—signed a declaration that calls for a more multipolar world and expanded cooperation in several areas.
The document, drafted by representatives of the Russian Federation and African Union leaders, emphasizes national sovereignty, non‑interference, and adherence to the UN Charter. It calls for reforms to international institutions, including a push for greater African representation on the UN Security Council, and condemns unilateral coercive measures and unlawful seizure of sovereign assets.
Declaration Highlights
Economic cooperation forms the backbone of the declaration. It urges diversification of trade, reduction of trade barriers and increased investment in African industrialization. The text underscores cooperation in energy, citing nuclear power and natural gas, as well as in agriculture, fertilizer supplies, critical minerals processing and transport infrastructure.
Security cooperation receives explicit mention, with the declaration urging the establishment of a permanent high‑level Russia‑Africa dialogue on counter‑terrorism, food security and information security. It also calls for joint efforts against terrorism, violent extremism and maritime piracy.
Technology and science collaborations are identified through calls for joint research in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, science, education, healthcare and cultural exchanges. The text also outlines a desire for greater recognition of the enduring consequences of colonialism, calls for historical justice, and the return of cultural property.
Key Themes
The declaration frames the alliance as one that seeks to construct a ‘fairer multipolar world order.’ According to a TASS report, “Russia and African countries are natural allies in building a new, fairer multipolar world order.”
"Russia and African countries are natural allies in building a new, fairer multipolar world order."
A spokesperson for the Kremlin stated, “The decisions reached today will be implemented systematically, including through permanent mechanisms for promoting cooperation between Russia and Africa.”
Reactions from Summit Participants
President Vladimir Putin and Chairperson of the African Union, President of Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye, concluded the summit with a joint press conference at 21:00 Moscow time. While no direct statement was quoted in the available source materials, the officials reiterated their commitment to the declaration’s objectives.
Other high‑profile meetings during the summit included discussions with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, and President Abdel Fattah el‑Sisi of Egypt, as well as conversations with African regional organizations. The summit’s proceedings were documented in a series of Kremlin press releases and video footage.
These developments are part of a larger strategy reported by the Kremlin to foster deeper ties with African nations through trade, security, and technology. The official communications emphasize the constructive role Russia wishes to play in advocating for a more balanced global governance structure.
As the declaration is taken up by the participating states, observers expect to see a gradual shift toward enhanced Russian-African cooperation in line with the multipolar vision set out at the summit.
