Buhari Meets Putin, Other African Leaders In Russia (Photos)

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday met Russian President, Vladimir Putin at the opening of the Russia-Africa Summit holding in Russia.

Speaking during the opening session of the Summit, Putin said Africa has many potential partners with good prospects.

He added that Russia would aim to double trade with Africa over the next five years.

“We currently export to Africa $25 billion worth of food — which is more than we export in arms, at $15 billion. In the next four to five years I think we should be able to double this trade, at least,” he told African leaders at the Black Sea resort of Sochi.

“In Africa, there are very many potential partners with good prospects.”

See photos from the opening session as shared by Bashir Ahmad, Buhari’s New Media aide:

Naija News reports that the summit is scheduled to end on October 25th, 2019.

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Buhari, Garba Shehu, the summit will focus on exploring and expanding opportunities in security, trade and investment, science and technology, and gas production.

The summit will bring fresh perspectives on some global issues and challenges like nuclear technology, energy development, digital transformation, environment, technical security, mining and steel, education, agriculture, infrastructure and development strategies.

Buhari was accompanied on the trip by Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State and Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State.

Others on the trip are: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo, Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and Minister of State, Petroleum, Timipre Sylva.