Moscow, Malabo finalize agreement allowing Russian instructors to provide training to members of Equatorial Guinea's armed forces
Date
6/11/2024 8:34:47 AM
(MENAFN) In a significant development, Moscow and Malabo have finalized an agreement allowing Russian instructors to provide training to members of Equatorial Guinea's armed forces, announced Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue on Thursday.
The agreement, sealed during a meeting between Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov and the African vice president, marks a pivotal step in bolstering military cooperation between the two nations. Vice President Obiang disclosed the details of the agreement on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing its potential to enhance the capabilities of Equatorial Guinea's national army through specialized training programs conducted by Russian instructors.
The announcement underscores the deepening ties between Equatorial Guinea and Russia, with Vice President Obiang noting that Yevkurov's visit to Malabo has elevated bilateral relations to a new level, particularly in the realm of defense and security cooperation. The agreement signifies a commitment to multi-sectoral collaboration aimed at strengthening Equatorial Guinea's defense capabilities and enhancing regional security.
The trajectory of the bilateral relationship between Equatorial Guinea and Russia has been on an upward trajectory, with discussions on various fronts taking place since President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo's visit to Moscow in November 2023. Among the topics discussed was the potential establishment of a Russian embassy in Malabo, with recent reports suggesting that the embassy is already operational de facto.
In addition to the military training agreement, Russia's engagement with African nations in defense matters has been evident, as highlighted by a high-level delegation from the Russian Defense Ministry's visit to Niger and Mali. Discussions during the visit revolved around defense and security cooperation, with a focus on addressing the challenges posed by jihadist violence in the Sahel region.
Overall, the agreement between Russia and Equatorial Guinea underscores the mutual commitment to enhancing military capabilities and fostering strategic cooperation in the realm of defense and security.
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