Lavrov on Four-Nation Africa Tour to Drum Up Support for Upcoming Russia-Africa Summit

From 6 to 10 July 2026, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov undertook a four-nation African tour to drum up support for the upcoming Russia-Africa Summit 2026. This 3rd edition is taking place in Moscow from 28 to 29 October 2026. Lavrov consecutively visited Ethiopia, Niger, Mozambique and Burundi; in Ethiopia, he also had a working session with the African Union.

The trade volume between Russia and Africa is about USD 27 billion. Both sides are willing to double the trade volume by 2030. Similarly, Africa heartily welcomes investments and knowledge transfer from Russia to realize its #Agenda2063 objectives.

Lavrov reiterated Russia’s support for reforming the United Nations so that Africa can have a greater voice. In particular, he believes that the #GlobalSouth must be better represented in the ‘multipolar world order.’ Both sides scheduled the next round of high-level of consultations in 2027. Russia plans to increase its footprint in Africa by opening new embassies in Niger, Sierra Leone, and South Sudan.

In Ethiopia, Lavrov met with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Both sides reviewed the status of the project to construct a 2,400-MW nuclear power plant in Ethiopia, the agreement for which was signed back in September 2025.

In Niger, Lavrov took part in a meeting with ministers from countries making up the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Other than Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali are part of that group of Sahelian states. Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s commitment to providing strategic support to ensure security in the region and criticized certain powers for their colonial mindset.

In Mozambique, Lavrov met with President Daniel Chapo. Lavrov pledged Russian support to respond to terrorist threats in the northern region of Mozambique. Burundi currently holds the Chair of the African Union and Lavrov invited President Evariste Ndayishimiye to co-host the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit.