"We have provided steady support over the decades for African countries in the face of the ongoing presence of colonialist powers," he said. He said Russia was increasing agricultural exports and would remain a reliable supplier of food, including free grain, to Africa. Mr Putin said Moscow respected African leaders' peace proposal on Ukraine and was carefully studying it. Seventeen African leaders attended the Russia-Africa summit, less than half the number who attended the previous forum in 2019. On the sidelines of the summit Mr Putin on Wednesday met Mr El Sisi, hailing their growing bilateral trade that accounts for about one third of Russia’s trade with Africa.

Source: Ethiopian News July 28, 2023 12:06 UTC