Mali, Russia Seal New Economic and Energy Agreements

Mali and Russia have finalized multiple agreements to boost trade and strengthen their economic partnership.

One of the key points includes plans for closer collaboration in nuclear energy, based on information shared by the Kremlin.

The deals were revealed during the official trip of Mali’s military leader, Col Assimi Goïta, to Moscow, where he reportedly held two hours of discussions with President Vladimir Putin.

Since taking control in 2021, Goïta has shifted Mali’s foreign alliances toward Russia, pulling away from its traditional ties with France. This shift mirrors moves by nearby nations like Burkina Faso and Niger, where military-led governments have also leaned toward Moscow after removing civilian administrations.

During a statement on Monday, Putin acknowledged that current trade with Mali was “modest” but pointed to positive growth. He also mentioned that both nations saw opportunities in areas such as “geological exploration, energy, logistics and the humanitarian field”.

Plans for building a Russian-style nuclear power facility in Mali have also been part of previous discussions between the two countries as a long-term energy strategy.

“This official visit will contribute to further deepening our relationship in a spirit of mutual trust and respect for sovereignty,” Col Goïta said, according to a statement by the Malian presidency.

Col Goïta thanked Russia for its “warm welcome” and reiterated Mali’s intention to expand cooperation, saying it “covers many sectors”.

Military collaboration remains central to the Mali-Russia relationship.

Russian paramilitary groups have provided support to Col Goïta’s regime after French and UN peacekeepers were expelled following years of anti-insurgency efforts.

Although the Wagner Group has since withdrawn, a different contingent known as the Africa Corps continues to operate in Mali.

The military government cited worsening insecurity as the main reason for seizing power, but violence in the country has escalated in recent times despite promises to restore stability.

Russia’s Defence Minister, Andrei Belousov, who met separately with Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara, emphasized that the main focus of their cooperation was “to achieve practical results in enhancing security and sovereignty”.

“This approach is the key to any success and victory,” he said.