Kagame made this statement during a press conference while visiting Benin over the weekend.
Russia and China are among the superpowers expanding relations with African countries in various areas, including security and trade.
However, Western countries and the United States have expressed their disapproval of the deepening relationships, particularly since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict last year.
Towards the end of 2022, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, warned that African countries that failed to recognize sanctions imposed on Russia and further deepen cooperation with the country might face sanctions themselves.
When asked for his opinion on the behavior of the US and Europe regarding Africa’s cooperation with Russia, Kagame stated that big powers should not waste their time on Africa’s foreign relations when there are other pressing issues that require more attention.
He emphasized that Russia has a right to be anywhere legally, just like any other country, and that African countries should focus on identifying their partnership needs and working with those who offer what they need.
The Head of State also noted that the same goes for Africa-China relations, as there are people complaining about it.
Russia is among the countries enjoying cordial relations with Africa after China. Last month, Russia announced that it had written off debts of African nations amounting to more than $20 billion, while trade volumes between the continent and the country reached US$18 billion in 2022.
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