Russia’s second-largest city will host the 2nd Russia-Africa Summit, beginning on Thursday (Jul. 27), with 49 African countries confirmed to participate. The summit aims to reassemble relations between Russia and the African continent, considering recent changes in the global economy and politics, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing military operations.

The meeting is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening ties between Russia and Africa, with a focus on finding common ground and addressing topical issues, such as the grain deal. Africa’s growing influence in international affairs, as the largest voting bloc at the UN, has prompted other nations, including the USA, to organize similar gatherings.

The summit is expected to result in various agreements, and there will be an emphasis on assisting Africa’s national sovereign development, fair access to food, fertilizers, modern technologies, and energy resources.

During the first Russia-Africa Summit in 2019, President Putin pledged to double Russia’s trade with Africa within five years, but progress has stalled, remaining around $18 billion annually.