Moscow considers the West's pressure on African countries to not participate in the upcoming Russia-Africa Summit "outrageous," said Peskov, stressing that it will not create obstacles for the gathering.
The Kremlin spokesman noted that the reduction in number of foreign leaders at the Russia-Africa summit is largely due to their own plans, but there is also pressure of the United States that has played a role in it.
"As for the reduction in number of foreign leaders that have arrived [to attend the summit], it has indeed happened. It is largely due to working plans of leaders, but of course, there is a bit of what we have discussed with you earlier. It is absolutely undisguised, brazen interference of the United States, France and other countries through their diplomatic missions in African states, and they are trying to exert pressure on the leadership of these countries to prevent their active participation in the forum," Peskov told reporters.
He said that these actions by the West were outrageous, though it would not hamper the "successful organization of the summit."
According to the official website of the Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian forum, held in 2019 in the Russian resort city of Sochi, the event was attended by official representatives of all 54 African countries, 45 of which were represented by heads of state and government. This year, 17 African leaders will visit St. Petersburg for the second edition of the summit.
Peskov added that Russia is happy to welcome the heads of state and government who have already arrived, and all other representatives of African nations.
"We look forward to a very busy summit, a productive summit in the coming days," he stated.
On Tuesday, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov announced that 49 countries have confirmed their participation in the summit. In total, 17 presidents, five vice presidents, four heads of government and one head of parliament will be among participants, according to Ushakov.
The second Russia-Africa Summit will take place in St. Petersburg on July 27-28. The Kremlin said it views the summit as an important opportunity to discuss the Black Sea Grain Initiative and Russia's support for Africa. Summit participants are expected to sign many international and bilateral documents, the Kremlin added.