Mali’s Goïta holds talks with Putin on enhancing security and economic ties

Mali’s interim President, Colonel Assimi Goïta, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 25, 2021, in the first visit by a Malian leader to Moscow since 1961. The two leaders discussed enhancing security and economic ties between the two countries.

The meeting between Goïta and Putin

The meeting between Goïta and Putin focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Mali and Russia. The two leaders discussed a number of issues, including the fight against terrorism, the economic development of Mali, and the possibility of Russian investment in the country.

Goïta expressed his appreciation for Russia’s support of Mali’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and invited Putin to visit Mali. Putin, for his part, said that Russia would continue to support Mali in its efforts to combat terrorism and promote economic development.

Enhancing security ties

One of the main topics of discussion between Goïta and Putin was the need for enhanced security cooperation between Mali and Russia. Mali has been grappling with a severe security crisis for several years now, and the country has been facing attacks by Islamist militants in the northern and central regions.

During the meeting, Goïta reiterated Mali’s commitment to fighting terrorism and noted that Russia had experience in dealing with similar challenges. Putin expressed his support for Mali’s efforts to combat terrorism and suggested that Russia could provide training and equipment to support the country’s security forces.

Economic cooperation between Mali and Russia

In addition to security cooperation, Goïta and Putin also discussed the economic development of Mali. Mali is one of the poorest countries in the world, and the country is in dire need of investment to support its growth and development.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the possibility of Russian investment in Mali’s mining, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors. Putin noted that Russian companies were interested in investing in these areas and suggested that a joint working group should be established to explore these opportunities further.

The significance of the meeting

The meeting between Goïta and Putin marks a significant development in the relationship between Mali and Russia. It is the first visit by a Malian leader to Moscow since 1961 and underscores the importance that Mali attaches to its relationship with Russia.

The meeting also highlights the growing interest of Russia in Africa. Russia has been seeking to expand its presence on the African continent in recent years, and the meeting between Putin and Goïta provides an opportunity for Russia to increase its influence in Mali and the wider West African region.

Conclusion

The meeting between Mali’s interim President, Colonel Assimi Goïta, and Russian President Vladimir Putin marks a significant step forward in the relationship between Mali and Russia. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance security cooperation and promote economic development in Mali.

As Mali continues to grapple with a severe security crisis, the support of Russia could be crucial in helping the country combat terrorism and maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, the possibility of Russian investment in Mali’s mining, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors could provide much-needed support for the country’s economic growth and development.

Overall, the meeting between Goïta and Putin highlights the growing interest of Russia in Africa and provides an opportunity for Russia to increase its influence in Mali and the wider West African region.

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