Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized his country's military ties with African countries, saying Moscow is supplying weapons and equipment to more than 40 African nations that have military technology cooperation agreements with Russia.

Putin made the remark at the Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city, on Friday.

Government officials and business representatives from 49 of Africa's 54 nations took part in the two-day event.

Putin said Russia is interested in forging close ties with African security organizations, adding that Moscow plans to continue training military personnel from Africa.

He also acknowledged that the African countries are taking the initiative in helping resolve the Ukrainian crisis, and said Russia is carefully studying their peace proposal.

On Thursday, Putin promised to deliver free Russian grain in the next several months to six African countries.

Analysts say Russia wants to stress its military and agricultural cooperation with African nations to win them over amid the deepening rift with the West.