"The prospects of our relations are really good. They are based on a long tradition that has been laid out in the 1960s during the process of African countries obtaining independence. Russia never participated in the colonization of Africa but has helped train many scientists, doctors, engineers and many others who know and can speak Russian. These we consider as bridges of forging and strengthening our cooperation," Klinov said assertively.

He explained that Monday's parliamentary hearing will be dedicated exclusively to examine Russia's partnership with the African continent and will be a productive platform for exchange of views among politicians, African diplomats as well as Russian researchers and specialists on Africa.

Regretably, Klimov said that "the level of our economic relations leaves much to be desired and a lot of opportunities were lost in the 1990s after the collapse of the Soviet Union."

"It is complicated to develop cooperation on an equal scale with different African countries. We would like not only to work together in the sphere of natural resources such as mining, but mostly to offer our assistance in the build-up of the infrastructure, increase partnership in the energy field and provide needed training of African specialists," the Russian politician remarked in conclusion.

-APA