On October 30, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Nikitin stated during talks with African leaders in Moscow that Russia is advancing transport cooperation with African nations. He highlighted significant progress on a new international corridor linking Russia to West Africa via Togo’s port of Lomé and extending through Sahel countries and other sub-Saharan states.
Nikitin emphasized Russia’s readiness to facilitate African airlines operating flights to Russian airports, while also offering assistance in constructing and modernizing airfields across the continent. Additionally, Russian Railways has committed to sharing expertise in railway infrastructure development, engineering practices, personnel training, and operational management.
At the summit, six transport cooperation agreements were finalized between Russia and African nations. Nikitin described these initiatives as reflecting “the firm commitment of Russia and Africa to strengthen ties.”
Two days earlier, on October 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited African airlines to launch direct flights to Russia and outlined plans for “comprehensive solutions” in developing robust logistics routes that would enhance trade and investment through the design, construction, and modernization of railways, highways, maritime networks, and transport hubs.
