"Russia is ready to increase assistance to African countries, including in enhancing its peacekeeping potential, as well as to participate in developing healthcare and education systems," Dmitry Medvedev told a news conference following the G8 summit in Japan.

He also said that Russia supported the efforts of the world community to develop African economies.

Moscow has written off $16 billion worth of debt owed by African states and is in talks over another $550 million.