Russia Seeks New Partnerships: First Russia-Africa Ministerial Conference in Sochi

Russia inaugurated the first ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi to strengthen ties with African countries. This initiative aims to counterbalance the notion of Russia's Western isolation and build on the previous Russia-Africa summit to expand political and economic relationships.

In a strategic move to bolster international relationships, Russia kicked off the inaugural ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi on Saturday. The event, aiming to strengthen ties with African nations, seeks to challenge perceptions of Russia's isolation due to Western sanctions.

This conference builds on last year's Russia-Africa summit where Russian President Vladimir Putin made significant overtures towards African leaders, proposing the expansion of political and business alliances. The two-day gathering, attended by influential figures from both regions, is set to become a regular forum, according to Anton Kobyakov, an adviser to President Putin.

Russian Foreign Ministry's Maria Zakharova remarked on the event's success in countering pessimistic views of Russia's global standing. With numerous bilateral meetings underway, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is scheduled to address the plenary session, emphasizing the multipolar nature of the new global order.

(With inputs from agencies.)