(MENAFN) Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Mali’s transitional leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, in Moscow on Monday, where they signed three key agreements, including a treaty establishing an intergovernmental commission focused on trade and scientific cooperation. Putin highlighted that these agreements will solidify the legal framework supporting bilateral relations between Russia and Mali.

The other two treaties cover the foundations of their bilateral relationship and cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Putin emphasized the longstanding and trustworthy relationship between the two countries, noting that diplomatic ties were established 65 years ago and that over 10,000 Malian specialists have been trained in Russia. Goita praised the strong partnership, pointing to tangible progress in areas such as transport, security, culture, and energy.

The Malian president, who arrived in Moscow for a five-day official visit, also paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor Soviet soldiers who fell in battle.

Mali is a founding member of the Alliance of Sahel States alongside Niger and Burkina Faso, which have increasingly sought Russian support to combat terrorist groups destabilizing the region. These countries have severed defense ties with France, criticizing the former colonial power for failing to curb the jihadist insurgency despite years of military involvement.

On Monday, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov met with Mali’s Defense Minister Sadio Camara, agreeing to enhance military and technical cooperation aimed at strengthening Mali’s security and sovereignty.

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