The Russia-Africa Summit took place on 23^rd – 25 0ctober 2019 in Sochi, Russia. It brought together representatives from Russia and Africa to discuss business between the two regions. Dmitry Mazepin was in the Summit in his capacity as the chair of the Board of Directors Of URALCHEM, and the Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors of Uralkali.

Dmitry Mazepin is also a member of the Bureau of the Board of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. The attendants were to go into a plenary meeting with the president of Russia Vladimir Putin. The Russian president was to make a speech on “Industrial cooperation: potential growth points.” The participants were also going to meet heads of African states present at the event to discuss probable business exploits.

About the Summit;

The forum aimed at determining the direction of development of economic and trade relations between Russia and the African countries. Those present at the summit discussed ways of improving cooperation between the two regions, initiation of new projects and other areas that required financial assistance. The members were also to share their personal experiences regarding penetrating the African market and what it was like doing business there. URALCHEM had already started penetrating the African market through the sale of mineral fertilizers and chemicals to the continent.

Comments by Dmitry Mazepin;

Dmitry Mazepin noted the uniqueness of the opportunities for the development of the Africa region. He stated that URALCHEM was already becoming stable partner on the continent of Africa – both technologically and in terms of product exportation. Hestated that as at then, URALCHEM was supplying fertilizers to Zimbabwe and Zambia. URALCHEM was also in the process of considering putting up a logistic hub in Africa.Later, it was announced that the store was going to be put up in Angola. He also said that he hoped the summit would clearly indicate the position that Russia business was going to Africa and was ready to help in its development.

Dmitry Mazepin With African Presidents;

The evening before the summit kicked off, Dmitry Mazepin met and held talks with some of the African heads of states. First, he met Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, the president of Mozambique. The Port of Beira, through which URALCHEM supplies mineral fertilizers to Africa is in Mozambique. Secondly, Dmitry Mazepin met Emmerson Mnangagwa, the president of the republic of Zimbabwe and held talks with him. Other African leaders were also scheduled to hold talks at the Summit.

Summit’s Importance;

The forum is an important and strategic step in the establishment of effective economic and trade relations between the Russian Federation and the African countries. This Russia – Africa business forum was being held for the first time in October 2019. The event was chiefly organized by The Roscongress Foundation.

Payday loans was attended by representatives Russia and Africa – both from the business arena and government agencies. Both regions would benefit from each other since each has unique opportunities to be exploited by the other. URALCHEM was hoped to benefit more.