Russia determined to comprehensively develop interaction with African countries, including on security - Kremlin

MOSCOW. June 9 (Interfax) - Russia will continue interaction with African countries on defense and security matters, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said.

"Russia is increasing its presence in Africa. We really intend to comprehensively develop our interactions with African countries, placing an emphasis primarily on economic and investment interactions. Among other things, this cooperation also extends to such sensitive areas that are related to defense and security," Peskov told journalists on Monday.

"In this respect, Russia will also continue its interactions and cooperation with African nations," he said, when asked what might change in Russia's presence in Africa after the Wagner Group was replaced by the Africa Corps in Mali.