“From now on, we will be much more open.”Russian President Vladimir Putin pulled off a major feat bringing together delegates of all 54 African states for the summit on Wednesday and Thursday. Moscow was a crucial player on the continent in the Soviet era, backing independence movements and training a generation of African leaders. The gathering was a colorful affair, with some African participants flaunting traditional fabrics and headdresses in contrast to the black-suited Russian delegates. Russia has used a traditional combination of debt relief, arms supplies and defense expertise to expand its footprint in Africa. The International Agency for Sovereign Development set up a massive stand on the sidelines of the Sochi summit.

Source: Taipei Times October 26, 2019 15:56 UTC