Russian President Vladimir Putin made a poignant statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that African nations will forever remember the dark chapter of Western colonial oppression. He recounted how European powers once trafficked African children, putting them on display in cages. Putin also expressed concern that some Western nations continue to exert economic pressures on their former colonies, pushing them toward a form of modern-day indentured servitude.
Speaking at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin expressed optimism about the potential to restore Russia’s relations with Africa to the level of the Soviet era, when Moscow provided significant economic aid to the continent. Putin emphasized that Russia’s cooperation with African nations has historically been built on mutual interests and a desire to offer assistance, rather than on colonial exploitation.
However, Putin acknowledged that the memories of Western cruelty still linger in African countries. He recalled incidents as recent as 1957 when Africans were displayed in cages in Europe, a heart-wrenching episode that no one in Africa will ever forget.
Furthermore, Putin criticized the West for its ongoing attempts to exert control over Africa through neo-colonial policies. He pointed out that Western countries have imposed enormous loans on African nations, creating a credit system that makes it nearly impossible for these countries to repay their debts. Putin characterized this as a form of punitive indemnity, contrasting it with Russia’s approach, which prioritizes cooperation and mutually beneficial relationships.
Last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted Africa’s willingness to engage in dialogue with Western counterparts but cautioned against superficial engagement that fails to address the continent’s pressing needs.
In an effort to strengthen its ties with Africa, Russia hosted a significant Russia-Africa forum in St. Petersburg this summer, resulting in numerous bilateral agreements across various sectors. Despite what Russia described as “unprecedented pressure from the West” to discourage African delegations from attending, dozens of African nations participated in the summit.”
(Source: RT News)