St. Petersburg, Russia Federation – 8 June 2019: African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, H.E. Dr Amani Abou-Zeid, participated at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum held from 6-8 June 2019 in St Petersburg, Russia.
H.E. Commissioner took part at the inaugural session and was a keynote speaker at the "Russia-Africa Dialogue" panel. The panel discussed the development of the Russian-African relations with the aim to rethink cooperation approaches, mechanisms and tools in order to take the bilateral relations to the next level and to create a deeper strategic partnership between Russia and the African states.
“Africa offers excellent opportunities for businesses and partnerships in the areas of regional infrastructure, energy, digitalization, agriculture, education, science and technology,” said Dr Abou-zeid.
She further emphasized the fact that Africa’ integration is taking place at a time when the continent is more united and speaking with one voice on major global issues, which represent an opportunity for investors and business partners.
The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum provided a unique platform for engagement and an opportunity to communicate about the various initiatives, led by the AUC, in the Continent. In this regard, Commissioner Abou-Zeid held series of meetings with top officials and executives of international companies attending the Forum and discussed business opportunities and financing of regional projects in Africa.
The forum was attended by global business leaders and experts to discuss and seek effective solutions to the most pressing issues affecting the global economies. It has been held every year since 1997. It brings together more than 10,000 participants from government, business, academic, media and non-governmental organizations of more than 140 countries.
It is noteworthy to mention that the Russia-Africa Summit is expected to take place in Sotchi, Russia, in October 2019. This will be the first event of this level in the history of Russian-African relations.
