MOSCOW, April 23. /TASS/. Russia has announced a strategic commitment to deepen its engagement with African nations and integration associations across the continent, Russian Presidential Special Envoy for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, said during the opening ceremony of the 4th "Russia-Africa Forum: What Next?" and the inaugural Forum of Young Diplomats Russia-Africa. "Today, our country is firmly committed to the comprehensive strengthening of relations with African countries and their regional integration bodies," Bogdanov stated. He emphasized that the creation of a new specialized department dedicated to partnership with Africa within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, scheduled for 2025, underscores the importance Russia places on this diplomatic priority. "We look forward to the participation of many attendees in our efforts, aiming to elevate Russian-African cooperation to a new and higher level," Bogdanov added. TASS serves as the official information partner for the 4th International Forum "Russia-Africa: What’s Next?".