Russia and African nations have been united for generations by an "enduring and vigorous friendship" that dates back to the continent's liberation struggle and continues to evolve in the wake of the most significant changes on the global political arena, said Gennady Gatilov, Russian Permanent Representative to the UN Office and Other International Organizations in Geneva.
In his opening remarks at the meeting with the African delegates, Gatilov emphasized the increasing role of African countries in global politics, noting that Russia has long been advancing the continent's interests and aspirations.
"Russia holds a strong bond with the countries of the African continent, which was forged in the Soviet Union’s unwavering support for decolonization, sovereignty and independence of the African nations," he underlined.
He went on to say that African nations continue to face numerous challenges and threats, including those attributed to the pressure exerted on them by the "collective West". In particular, Gatilov referred to unilateral sanctions and threats of catastrophic economic consequences for those who are reluctant to admit the "set of rules" imposed by the US and its allies.
Noting that the West continues to dictate terms for the continent, Gatilov also pointed to the attempts to whitewash the horrors" of the colonial times. He explained that these practices are part of the West's strategy to downgrade Africa's role to that of a "resource colony that provides raw materials in exchange for limited access to certain 'benefits' of the Western civilization."
"Unfortunately, to this day, the African continent continues to face many challenges and threats, among which are Western oppressive practices that have evolved into something known as 'neo-colonialism,'" he said, adding: "On our part [Russia], we stand for an entirely different approach."
Unlike several Western countries, the Russian representative in Geneva highlighted, Moscow seeks to maintain an equitable and mutually beneficial partnership with African nations. In this regard, he added, the country actively advocates for the concept of multipolarity in international relations, as well as for the urgent need for the UN reform.
"Russia stands for reforming key international institutions, like the UN Security Council, to reflect modern realities of the 21st century by increasing representation of states from Africa, Latin America and Asia," Gatilov reiterated.
Commenting on the upcoming Russia-Africa summit, the diplomat expressed his confidence that the event in St. Petersburg will be successful and productive, and will help to open up new frontiers in cooperation between the countries in trade, scientific, humanitarian and other fields.