Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently visited Guinea, marking his first trip to the West African country since 2013. This visit comes at a time when Russia’s relations with the West have deteriorated following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In recent years, Moscow has been working to increase its influence in Africa, and Lavrov’s trip to Guinea is seen as part of this effort. The details of the visit were not provided by the Russian Foreign Ministry, but it is reported that Lavrov may also visit other African countries such as Chad and Burkina Faso during his tour.
The visit to Guinea is part of a larger tour of African countries, although specific details about the other nations Lavrov plans to visit have not been disclosed. In July, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited African leaders to a summit in St. Petersburg, where they discussed promoting a multipolar world order and combating neocolonialism. Putin emphasized the importance of all states working together to create a more just and democratic global order. This summit highlights Russia’s desire to strengthen ties with African nations and increase its presence on the continent.
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Lavrov’s visit to Guinea represents Russia’s ongoing efforts to expand its influence in Africa, as the country seeks to strengthen ties with African nations and promote a multipolar world order. The details of Lavrov’s tour of African countries, including potential visits to Chad and Burkina Faso, reflect Russia’s strategic interests on the continent. The summit in St. Petersburg, where African leaders agreed to work together towards a more just global order, underscores Russia’s commitment to fostering cooperation and partnership with African nations.
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