Work of press centre for two summits summarised at the National Centre RUSSIA
On 30 October, the joint International Press Centre at the National Centre RUSSIA concluded its work covering the Eighth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum and the Third Russia–Africa Summit. It had operated around the clock since 26 October. The summit also featured the Russia–Africa Media Forum, which brought together executives and journalists from leading African media outlets and media associations, influential bloggers with millions of followers, and descendants of prominent leaders from across the continent.
Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation and Executive Secretary of the Organising Committee, summarised the results of the Third Russia–Africa Summit and the Economic and Humanitarian Forum, held in Moscow on 28–29 October. At a briefing for journalists, he noted that more than 3,500 representatives from 74 countries had taken part in the events, while the business programme had brought together over 1,200 Russian and international business representatives from around 630 companies.
According to him, Africa is no longer perceived by Russia as somewhere distant, and countries are returning to traditional partnership formats based on mutual benefit. Anton Kobyakov emphasised that, of the three summits, this one had achieved the most tangible results in terms of moving joint initiatives towards practical implementation. He identified technology transfer, industrial cooperation, the development of energy and transport infrastructure, and personnel training as priorities for cooperation. Dialogue with African partners will continue, including at the landmark 30th St Petersburg International Economic Forum in 2027.
As part of the Media Forum, international journalists and bloggers met with Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation. He explained that Russia offers African countries an equal partnership founded on sovereignty. Together with companies, Russia is ready to develop solutions in energy, food security, digital technology and education, while ensuring that control, data and revenue remain in the partner country. Participants asked questions about sovereignty and Russia's experience under sanctions, economic projects with African countries, import substitution, and the role of universities, among other topics.
African journalists also met with Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She stated that Africa remains one of the key areas of Russian foreign policy and that relations are built on the principles of equality, sovereignty and mutual benefit. She spoke about Russia's diplomatic presence on the continent, where it maintains relations with all 54 countries. Trade between Russia and African countries exceeded USD 27 billion in 2025. She also addressed food security, grain and mineral fertiliser supplies, and the work of 22 bilateral intergovernmental commissions.
Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, gave a presentation about the venue to the press centre participants and spoke about the Centre's mission, its exposition and business projects, and its new building, which is due to open on 4 November 2029.
The Media Forum programme also featured specialist sessions. TASS hosted a session entitled "Developing Cooperation in the Modern Era: New Platforms and Formats for Engagement", with contributions from the heads of news agencies in Algeria, Seychelles, Guinea, Niger and Tunisia.
RT organised sessions with editors-in-chief of African television channels and media regulators, as well as with African celebrities and influential bloggers on the topic "A Land of Opportunities: How African Stars Are Shaping Continental Identity". Russian and African media companies signed a number of cooperation agreements and memorandums.
One of the most memorable events was the completion of the "Nevalyashki" ("Roly Poly Dolls") art installation. Descendants of prominent African leaders, including Ndileka Mandela, granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, and Gamal Khaled Gamal Abdel Nasser, grandson of Gamal Abdel Nasser, joined popular bloggers and media representatives from across the continent in leaving signatures, wishes and dreams on the colourful nevalyashka toys. The installation became a symbol of friendship and resilience for participants.
International guests also visited the interactive exposition "Journey Across Russia". Over the course of 90 minutes, they travelled virtually from Kamchatka to Kaliningrad, discovering the achievements, natural landscapes, culture and history of all of Russia's federal districts.
On 30 October, Charlotte Epel Akol, daughter of Jessica Alupo, Vice-President of the Republic of Uganda, visited the National Centre RUSSIA.
One of the highlights for the Centre's international guests was taking part in the creation of the collective "Nevalyashki" ("Roly Poly Dolls") art installation.
