Russia is planning to open its diplomatic missions in Gambia, Liberia, Togo and the Comoros, according to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who announced the initiative during the opening of the Department of Partnership with Africa. Lavrov emphasized that the endeavor “requires both great attention and serious resources” and that his ministry has the full support of the President and the Russian government in this regard.
Lavrov also reminded that Russian embassies in Niger and Sierra Leone are expected to reopen in the near future and a Russian diplomatic mission will start its work in South Sudan for the first time. Moscow’s steps to expand its diplomatic presence in Africa, which were explained by the ministry’s representatives last autumn, have been in the works.
The Department of Partnership with Africa, presented by the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday, will focus on implementing the tasks set by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The department will take into account the agreements reached by Putin during the Russia-Africa Forum with African partners. Additionally, the department plans to develop cooperation with organizations such as the African Union.