Putin meets African leaders in Moscow during gas forum
The Russian president discussed cooperation with Mozambique, Libya and Equatorial Guinea as their leaders gathered for the Gas Exporting Countries Forum.
Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in Moscow on Oct. 27, 2026, with leaders from Mozambique, Libya and Equatorial Guinea, who were visiting for the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF). The discussions covered cooperation in international institutions and bilateral ties.
In his meeting with Mozambique’s President Daniel Francisco Chapo, Putin praised cooperation at the United Nations and other international bodies. He also expressed appreciation for Mozambique’s backing of Russian initiatives and its opposition to actions he characterized as hostile to Russia.
On Libya, Putin said Russia wanted to pursue joint initiatives and that trade between the countries was increasing despite international political and economic difficulties. He pointed to an April meeting in Moscow between the co-chairs of their joint intergovernmental commission and said Russia wanted the body to resume its full activities soon.
Putin also welcomed Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and thanked him for cooperation between their countries.
The GECF brings together 20 major gas-producing nations. Its members collectively hold more than 70 percent of proven gas reserves worldwide and account for over a third of global gas output.
