Russia Africa Summit: The surprising presence of Cameroonian President Paul Biya and his wife Chantal Biya
Around twenty African heads of state and government made the trip to Saint Petersburg for the Russia-Africa Summit on Thursday, July 27. Among them are long-time allies of Moscow, such as South African Cyril Ramaphosa and Congolese Denis Sassou-Nguesso, as well as new privileged partners, including Malian Assimi Goïta and Burkinabé Ibrahim Traoré. However, the attendance of Cameroonian President Paul Biya appears to be a surprise.
It is the first time in over 41 years of his rule in Cameroon that Paul Biya has made an official visit to Russia. Unlike many of his counterparts, the Cameroonian President did not attend the first edition of this summit in Sochi in 2019.
This visit is considered «historic» by his close aides, who express Paul Biya’s “concerns.” According to them, the head of state fears «the return of a Cold War, with Africa potentially being its first victim».
In recent months, the Cameroonian leader has increased his international trips, convinced that dialogue is possible despite disagreements.
Prior to visiting Russia, Paul Biya had already participated in the United States-Africa Summit in December 2022 and the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in late June in Paris.
“If Africa can contribute to dialogue, he is ready to play his part,” confides a close associate. This is the message that the Cameroonian President will convey during his bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.
Neil Camara
