The Russian Ministry of Transport is negotiating the establishment of new air routes to expand its air transport network, focusing on Africa, Cuba and other strategic destinations.

"We're negotiating with our partners in Africa, Cuba and other destinations. Here, everything depends on demand. If the airlines see demand, of course they will bet on exploitation. So the issue is being studied for specific countries," said the head of the ministry, Roman Starovoyt, at the Eastern Economic Forum.

The Eastern Economic Forum took place from September 3 to 6 at the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, Russia.

Russia already operates direct flights to several African destinations, such as Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco. (Sputnik)