Putin discusses security cooperation with Leaders of Mali, Niger and DR Congo

Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed security and economic cooperation with the junta leader of Mali, Assimi Goita, a day after he had a similar call with the junta leader of Niger, Abdourahamane Tchiani, and the Republic of the Congo, Dennis Sassou Nguesso.

The Kremlin confirmed the phone conversation on Wednesday between Goita and Putin regarding steps to strengthen Russian-Mali ties in various areas, including implementing joint agriculture, energy, and mining projects.

J’ai eu un entretien téléphonique avec le président Poutine. Nous avons abordé les questions bilatérales, notamment les domaines sécuritaire et économique. Nous avons convenu de coopérer davantage dans la lutte contre le terrorisme. pic.twitter.com/pioTrPtodh

— Colonel Assimi GOITA (@GoitaAssimi) March 27, 2024

We discussed bilateral issues, particularly the security and economic areas,” Goita wrote on X.

However, the insecurity issues in the Sahara-Sahel region led to an agreeable decision for intensified practical cooperation toward counterterrorism.

On the other hand, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, “the leaders agreed to continue contacts” to further active bilateral relations in the region’s politics, trade, economics, and humanitarian areas.

The Republic of Niger leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani as well spoke with Putin on Tuesday, as they discussed the need to reinforce their security cooperation against militant insurgencies in the Sahel region, especially after revoking its military accord with the United States.

While they all expressed deep condolences to Moscow following the report of the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall, the three have also come to terms with utilising the Alliance of the Sahel States (AES) pact following their decisions to exit the West African regional bloc.

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Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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