Preparations are underway for the third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled to take place in Moscow in October 2026, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.
Speaking at a Foreign Ministry briefing in Moscow on August 20, Zakharova described the summit as the main event in Russia’s relations with Africa this year and said invitations had been extended to the heads of state and government of all African countries, as well as leaders of the executive bodies of regional integration organisations.
The upcoming summit is expected to place a strong emphasis on economic cooperation, reflecting what Moscow describes as significant untapped potential in trade and investment between Russia and African countries.
Economic cooperation at the centre
According to Zakharova, economic issues will be at the heart of the summit agenda. Russia and its African partners are expected to discuss ways to expand trade and investment ties and create new opportunities for business cooperation.
Several strategic areas have also been identified as priorities, including the peaceful use of nuclear energy, the development of independent payment systems, food security and digital transformation.
Artificial intelligence is also expected to feature among the discussions, reflecting the growing importance of digital technologies in economic development and public services.
Business and humanitarian forum
An Economic and Humanitarian Forum will be organised alongside the summit, continuing a format used in previous Russia-Africa gatherings.
The forum will include thematic sessions and an exhibition component, providing government representatives, businesses and other participants with an opportunity to explore cooperation in agriculture, healthcare, education, science and technology, as well as cultural exchanges.
Moscow also expects the event to produce concrete agreements. Zakharova said a substantial package of intergovernmental documents and commercial contracts is expected to be signed during the summit and its related events.
African participation
The Russian Foreign Ministry says the upcoming summit has already attracted considerable interest among African partners. According to Zakharova, a number of African capitals have confirmed their participation and indicated that they intend to send delegations comprising government officials and business leaders.
The expected participation comes as Russia seeks to deepen its engagement with African countries across economic, technological and humanitarian sectors.
Zakharova said Moscow expects the third Russia-Africa Summit to be organised at a high level and to provide further momentum to the partnership between Russia and African states.
The October gathering will therefore offer an opportunity for both sides to translate political dialogue into new economic agreements and practical cooperation, particularly in sectors such as energy, food security, finance and digital technology.
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