Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a forum under the framework of the first Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi, Russia, on Oct. 23, 2019. The Russia-Africa Summit is the first of its kind in the history of the Russia-Africa ties. (Sputnik via Xinhua)
SOCHI, Russia, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- The development of relations with African countries and organizations is a priority of Russian foreign policy, Russian President Vladimir Putin said here on Thursday.
"African states are confidently gaining political and economic weight as one of the important pillars of the multipolar world system," Putin said at the first Russia-Africa Summit held in the Black Sea resort city.
Russia and African countries have similar positions on many issues, which are favorable for constructive interaction in the United Nations (UN) and other international organizations, Putin said.
As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia will continue to work to strengthen peace and stability in Africa and ensure regional security, he said.
Putin said Russia advocates African states resolving local conflicts based on the principle of "African solutions to African problems."
He said Russia attaches importance to creating joint efforts against terrorism and extremism. Also, Moscow plans to intensify contacts and exchanges with African counterparts in law enforcement and other related areas.
Russia will help African countries train military personnel and law enforcement officers, and provide African counterparts with a wide range of weapons and equipment, part of them for free, he said.
Putin proposed holding Russia-Africa meetings at the level of heads of state every three years and political consultations of foreign ministers annually.
Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a forum under the framework of the first Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi, Russia, on Oct. 23, 2019. The Russia-Africa Summit is the first of its kind in the history of the Russia-Africa ties. (Sputnik via Xinhua)
