OREANDA-NEWS. Russian President Vladimir Putin said some Western countries have resorted to intimidation and blackmailing African governments to regain lost influence and dominant positions in former colonies. This was announced by the Russian president in an interview with the Russian media.

According to Putin, in such ways "they strive - already in the "new wrapper"- to pump out super profits, to exploit the continent without regard to the people living here, and to environmental and other risks". In this regard, the president is sure, these Western countries impede the rapprochement between Russia and Africa. “It's likely that no one would interfere with such a policy”, the head of state suggested.

At the same time, Putin noted that Russia was ready for competition for cooperation with Africa. However, such competition should be civilized, he noted. “Of course, we take these realities into account, draw appropriate conclusions and aren't ready to redistribute the wealth of the continent, but to compete for cooperation with Africa”, Putin said.