Ukraine would like to help African countries achieve "food independence," serious interest of the African side in a number of proposals is noticeable, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Heorhiy Tykhy said.

"For example, the Minister [Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba] informed both Malawi and Zambia about the decision of the President of Ukraine to provide them with assistance within Grain from Ukraine. Both countries are seriously suffering from drought and climate change. This year, drought has hit Malawi and Zambia hard. Therefore, Ukraine is ready to help these countries and support them within Grain from Ukraine," he said at a briefing on Tuesday.

Also, according to the Foreign Ministry spokesman, African partners are interested in energy security.

"African countries are also very interested in energy security, since there are problems with energy in some places. In Zambia, for example, there are problems with hydroelectric power plants due to drought, so there really are power outages, as in Ukraine now. We are also ready to share experience in developing the energy system and increasing energy security," he said.

Tykhy noted that, in addition, Ukraine can share its experience in digitalization.

"Ukraine has vast experience in this area. Ukraine is a digital superpower, given the number of digital services for citizens and the development of this infrastructure," he noted.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman emphasized that these were just a few key topics. In fact, the discussions were very detailed. For example, detailed negotiations on investments were held with Mauritius.

"We invited a delegation of Mauritian businesses to visit Ukraine, hold a business forum, communicate, establish contacts and look for mutually beneficial projects with Ukrainian companies. We believe that this is a great potential," he said.

Tykhy placed special emphasis on the fact that cooperation will be based on mutual respect.

"Ukraine, unlike Russia, is not looking for ways to hook these countries: we will not just provide food, but also help them achieve 'food independence'... That is, help them increase the overall productivity of their agriculture, better supply themselves with food and become more independent in this regard. We believe that this is the right policy with respect for these countries, and not just giving 'handouts,' as Russia does, in order to control these countries. Ukraine seeks mutual respect and mutual benefit with them," he emphasized.