The Third Russia–Africa Summit took place on October 28–29, 2026, at the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Center in Moscow. On the second day of the summit, as part of the Economic and Humanitarian Forum, a panel session titled “Russia and Africa: Spiritual Sovereignty, Traditional Values, and Educational Cooperation” was held.
The Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, Metropolitan Konstantin of Cairo and North Africa, participated as a speaker.
The discussion was moderated by Hieromonk Stefan (Igumnov), Secretary for Inter-Christian Relations of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate.
Speaking about the development of the Russian Orthodox Church’s presence in African countries, Metropolitan Konstantin focused on the educational and social activities of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa. The archbishop expressed hope for the further development of the Russian Orthodox Church’s mission on the continent, mentioning with pastoral love and attention the distinctive characteristics and traditions of the peoples of Africa.
Among the speakers were:
• K.V. Babaev, Director of the Institute of China and Modern Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences, President of the National Coordination Center for International Business Cooperation;
• E.V. Eremin, Head of the Department for Interaction with Religious Organizations at the Office of the President of the Russian Federation for Internal Policy;
• M.M. Melekh, Foreign Minister’s Special Representative for International Cooperation in Ensuring the Right to Freedom of Religion;
• A.R. Krganov, Head of the Spiritual Assembly of Muslims of the Russia;
• A.A. Cherkezov, President of the “Christian World” Union.
The event was attended by Bishop Euphimy of Lukhovitsy, Vicar of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa; Priest George Maximov, Chairman of the Missionary Department of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa; Archpriest Daniel Lugovoy, Dean of the South African Ecclesiastical District; the Priest Parthenius Dansou, Dean of the West African Ecclesiastical District,; the Priest Daniel Agbaza, Dean of Parishes in Nigeria; as well as members of the delegation and representatives of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa currently studying in Russia.
Photo: Roscongress
Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa
