Aleksey Andreev has highlighted Moscow's flexible approach to helping other countries develop technologies that promote self-sufficiency

Russia is ready to support African countries in developing technologies that promote self-sufficiency and sovereignty, Aleksey Andreev, Russia's trade representative in Morocco, has stated.

In an interview with the newspaper L'Opinion on Tuesday, Andreev said, "Russia is ready to become a strategic partner of Morocco in the implementation of the national digital strategy Morocco Digital 2030."

He also stressed that while Africa is rich in resources, data has become the most valuable asset in today's world - adding that Russia is not interested in exploiting these resources, but in equipping African nations with tools to manage and protect them.

Russia offers "not only software products, but an ecosystem of digital solutions that guarantee technological sovereignty and growth," he said.

The proposed solutions include digital transformation projects, development of smart cities and systems for public administration, financial services, and business operations. He pointed to several priority domains for cooperation, including AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, automated control systems, telecommunications, and smart transportation. 

Asked whether Russia is prepared to support Morocco through skills training and digital literacy programs, Andreev highlighted the adaptability of the Russian approach. Unlike many Western companies, Russian developers prioritize localization and flexibility over rigid licensing models, he said.  

"Russian companies offer data hosting on local servers, adapting products to the requirements of domestic brands and working closely with local companies - an essential factor for countries seeking to strengthen their technological sovereignty," the trade representative explained. 

The initiative is in line with a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties with Africa. In November, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted that trade between Russia and African countries reached a record high of $24.5 billion in 2023, despite obstacles created by the West. According to estimates from the Agroexport Center, Russia's agricultural exports to Morocco reached nearly $280 million in 2024, marking a threefold increase compared to the previous year.

READ MORE: Russian food exports to Africa increase 19%

The interview took place ahead of the GITEX Africa 2025, the largest tech and startup show in Africa, scheduled for April 14-16 in Marrakesh, Morocco.