SOCHI: Russia and African states have confirmed their readiness to set up a dialogue mechanism in a bid to coordinate efforts on multiple security-related issues following a forum held in the Russian resort city of Sochi on Nov. 10, according to a joint statement. According to Anadolu Agency, the joint statement issued after the first ministerial meeting of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum highlighted the commitment to establish a standing top-level Russia-Africa dialogue mechanism designed to contribute towards peace, stability, and security. This initiative also aims to coordinate efforts in combating terrorism and extremism, and to address environmental problems, as well as food and information security issues. The statement expressed concern among the meeting's participants over the growing activity of terrorist groups in various African regions. It underscored the importance of resolving conflicts based on the principle of 'African Solutions to African Problems.' Furthermore, the statement emphasi zed the need for collective efforts and comprehensive approaches to assess and bolster the international peace and security architecture. It stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of intrastate and interstate conflicts, highlighting the principle of equal and indivisible security. Additionally, the statement reiterated all parties' commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, asserting that the treaty's implementation is a priority for maintaining the international security system. The parties also conveyed their concern about the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, especially the developments in Gaza and Lebanon, and expressed support for Palestine's membership to the UN.