In a significant move to strengthen their economic and trade ties, Mali and Russia have signed several agreements, including a cooperation deal on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. This development comes after Mali’s interim president, Assimi Goïta, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a five-day official visit to Moscow. The meeting, which began on Sunday, culminated in the signing of an agreement to create an Intergovernmental Russia-Mali Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation.
Speaking about the trade relations between the two countries, Vladimir Putin noted that while the current trade numbers are modest, they are showing a positive trend. He highlighted promising areas for cooperation, including geological exploration, natural resource development, energy, logistics, and humanitarian projects. The talks were aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties between Mali and Russia, with both leaders expressing satisfaction with the current state of cooperation.
Assimi Goïta acknowledged the good cooperation between Mali and the Russian Federation, stating that it demonstrates the effectiveness and trust between the two countries. His visit to Moscow comes at a time when Russian paramilitary group Wagner has left Mali, after being deployed in the country since December 2021. Wagner’s departure was marred by repeated accusations of human rights abuses. The group has been replaced by the Africa Corps, an organization managed by the Russian government.
The move is also significant given the increasing attacks against military facilities in Mali. Just this month, the al-Qaeda linked jihadist group Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) killed dozens of soldiers in an attack on a military base. Countries in the Alliance of Sahel States have been turning to Russia for help in fighting jihadist groups. Earlier in June, the Kremlin announced plans to boost economic and military cooperation with African countries, a move that is likely to have significant implications for the region.
The agreements signed between Mali and Russia mark a new chapter in their bilateral relations, with a focus on cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, and security. As the region continues to face challenges from jihadist groups, the partnership between Mali and Russia is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Sahel region. With thesigned agreements, both countries are poised to strengthen their economic and trade ties, while also addressing the security challenges facing the region.
