Moscow:Russia's trade with African countries surpassed $27 billion in 2025, with agriculture emerging as a significant area of cooperation. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov emphasized this in a statement reported by state media.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Ushakov detailed that Russia exported 1.5 million tons of mineral fertilizers to Africa in 2025, with shipments increasing to over 2.2 million tons in 2026. Additionally, Russia supplied more than 18 million tons of grain to African countries in 2025 and exported another 13 million tons in the first nine months of 2026.

Russia is also enhancing its diplomatic engagements across Africa, having opened embassies in South Sudan, Gambia, and the Union of the Comoros since 2022. Five other diplomatic missions have resumed in Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Ushakov further noted Russia's collaboration with African nations in international organizations, particularly the UN, addressing issues like counterterrorism, drug trafficking, and cybercrime.

This announcement comes ahead of the Russia-Africa summit scheduled for October 28-29 in Moscow, with 48 African countries, including 22 represented by their heads of state, confirming their participation.

Ushakov also highlighted the importance of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) amid rising global natural gas demand, projected to increase 28% by 2055. He stressed the need for a platform for professional and depoliticized dialogue in the global gas industry, considering the geopolitical tensions and restrictions affecting the sector.

Russia, holding the world's largest natural gas reserves and being the second-largest producer, considers stable gas supplies crucial for meeting global demand. The GECF summit, set for Tuesday in Russia, is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Moscow Declaration.