Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted the President of the Republic of Congo on Thursday to strengthen Russian-Congolese ties.
Sassou Nguesso has been in Russia since Tuesday on a trip expected to culminate in the signing of agreements on energy, trade and security cooperation. This is his second trip to the country in less than a year. Last July, he travelled to Saint Petersburg to attend the Russia-Africa summit.
While receiving Sassou-Nguesso on Thursday, Putin hailed him for improving the relationship between both countries.
“You personally have done a lot for the development of Russian-Congolese relations. You took part in two Russia-Africa summits and are making the necessary efforts to develop our cooperation in almost all areas, including the political level. Recently, trade and economic relations have been noticeably developing. We are grateful to you for your joint work on the international stage. Overall, everything is working out for us,” Putin said.
Sassou Nguesso said he is seeking Moscow’s improved investment in his country, especially in security and finance. “We would like to discuss with you and other officials the best way to advance the cooperation between our countries in all the fields, including economy, finance, defence, and security. We need security nowadays,” he said.
Russia has stepped up ties with African nations, on one hand, to access mineral resources and, on the other hand, to counter Western sanctions and isolation.
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