According to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, “We are certainly observing attempts by our detractors in Western nations to pressure African partners in an effort to prevent them from coming to Moscow,” in order to attend the third Russia-Africa Summit on October 28-29. She described it as a continuation of a colonial approach toward Africa, stating that “former colonial powers are failing to keep pace with a changing world” and that Western countries continue to seek to dictate foreign policy choices to African states.

She described the summit as an authoritative platform for developing practical solutions aimed at strengthening the multifaceted partnership between Russia and the states of the African continent. “The forum will be attended by representatives of government authorities, international organisations, business and financial circles and the scientific and expert communities of Russia and African countries,” Zakharova said.