Russia, Mali enhance trade, joint research

(MENAFN) Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mali’s transitional leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, met in Moscow on Monday to sign a series of agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation. The two countries finalized three major treaties, including one establishing an intergovernmental commission focused on trade and scientific research.

President Putin emphasized that the new agreements would enhance the legal foundation of Russia-Mali relations. The other two documents focus on foundational bilateral ties and collaboration in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Putin praised the long-standing, trust-based relationship between the two nations, noting that diplomatic ties began 65 years ago and that Russia has trained over 10,000 Malian specialists. Goita acknowledged Mali’s progress in areas such as transport, security, energy, and culture, crediting the nation’s growing partnership with Moscow.

“We are seeing concrete results from our cooperation,” Goita said. “This reflects the trust and effectiveness of our relationship with the Russian Federation.”

Goita, who arrived in Moscow on Sunday for a five-day visit, began his official engagements by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor fallen Soviet soldiers. He later held talks with Putin at the Kremlin.

Mali, along with Niger and Burkina Faso, is a founding member of the Alliance of Sahel States, a bloc that has increasingly distanced itself from France and turned to Russia for military and political support. These countries have accused France of failing to address the region’s decade-long jihadist insurgency.

On the same day, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov met with Malian Defense Minister Sadio Camara to discuss enhancing cooperation in defense and military technology, with the aim of boosting Mali’s security and sovereignty.

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