Ukraine is developing a strategy to expand its relations and presence on the African continent for the first time, according to the Office of the President.
An interagency coordination meeting dedicated to this issue was held under the chairmanship of Kyrylo Budanov, former head of Ukraine’s military intelligence and current chief of the Presidential Office.
Budanov noted that in previous years, Ukrainian institutions had been insufficiently engaged in promoting the country’s interests in the region.
Struggle for influence: Ukraine identifies key points of power in Africa
Participants of the meeting outlined a list of priority countries, particularly in the Maghreb and Sub-Saharan Africa, and identified states, international organizations, and financial mechanisms through which Ukraine can strengthen its presence.
“For the first time, Ukraine has set itself the goal of comprehensively influencing the situation on the African continent and protecting its national interests in this part of the world,” Budanov stated.
The initiative envisions systematic efforts to secure Ukraine’s long-term position as an active player in this strategically important region.
Global ambition: Ukraine full-fledged global actor
Ukraine seeks to reinforce its status as a competitive and influential geopolitical player, assert its agency, and advance its economic, security, and political interests worldwide.
The meeting was attended by the foreign minister, representatives of the Office of the President, the Cabinet of Ministers, the Foreign Intelligence Service, and the Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR), as well as experts.
Following the meeting, a draft action plan was approved and will be submitted to the government for consideration soon.
Once adopted, relevant ministries will receive specific tasks to ensure the practical implementation of the strategy.
