ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (TEH) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his decision not to renew the grain agreement from July 18. The announcement came ahead of the Russia-Africa summit to be held on July 27-28 in St. Petersburg. The President’s decision was premised on the observation that the grain deal did not achieve its initial purpose of aiding poorer nations.
The Grain Deal in Question
The grain agreement in focus directed more than 70% of Ukraine’s yearly exports to wealthy nations, such as those in the European Union, with less than 3% reaching countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Afghanistan. These figures were quoted in Putin’s article.
Putin criticized the agreement, stating, “This ‘deal’, heralded in the West as a demonstration of their concern and interest in Africa, was effectively exploited to enrich big American and European businesses that shamelessly export and resell grain from Ukraine.”
The Russian leader further highlighted that the terms of the agreement, which stipulated the removal of Russia’s grain and fertilizer exports from sanctions, were not fulfilled. This, he emphasized, undermined a humanitarian action which, in theory, should have been immune to sanctions.
Observations on the ‘New World Order’
In his letter, Putin broached the emergence of a “new, multipolar world order” which he confidently said would be more equitable and democratic. He projected that Africa, along with Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, would claim a significant position in this order, shedding the burdensome remnants of colonialism and neocolonialism.
The President expressed Russia’s satisfaction with the rising global stature of individual African nations and Africa as a whole, and their eagerness to assert themselves firmly.
Addressing Global Instability
Citing the prevalent global instability and emergence of new challenges, Putin voiced his hopes of forming a non-discriminatory cooperative agenda with African partners amidst these challenging times.
Assessing Russia-Africa Relations
The President announced that trade between Russia and African nations approximated $18 billion in 2022. However, he suggested that the potential for commercial and economic partnerships was substantially greater.
Putin emphasized Russia’s commitment to Africa, noting that the relationships “have always been characterized by stability, trust, and benevolence.” He applauded Russia’s consistent support of African countries in their fight against colonial oppression and in their state-building efforts.
Preview of the Russia-Africa Summit
Looking ahead to the Russia-Africa Summit, Putin informed that this year’s summit, the second of its kind, aims to adopt a comprehensive declaration, several joint statements, and an action plan for mutual partnership by 2026. The inaugural Russia-Africa summit was held in Sochi in 2019, and it was later decided to organize such forums triennially.
It is expected that approximately 50 countries will attend the upcoming summit, with almost half of the African nations being represented at the highest level – heads of state and government, according to Alexander Polyakov, Director of the African Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
