Summary:
- Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit Burundi and Equatorial Guinea this year, 2024, according to the Russian news agency Sputnik Africa. The visits aim to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, with notable collaborations in nuclear energy and resource extraction.
This year, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to embark on visits to Burundi and Equatorial Guinea, as disclosed by the Russian news agency Sputnik Africa. The announcement came last Saturday, outlining Putin’s international agenda for the year.
The invitation for Putin’s visit to Burundi was extended by Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye during the Russia-Africa summit in July 2023. This visit holds historical significance as it marks Putin’s inaugural presence in East Africa since assuming the presidency in 2001. Despite having visited only five African nations previously, Putin emphasized Russia’s unwavering commitment to fostering comprehensive ties with African countries.
Amidst Russia’s geopolitical challenges and sanctions, particularly due to its conflict with Ukraine, the nation has been strengthening its relations with Burundi. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov’s visit in 2023 underscored this commitment, followed by other high-profile visits and collaborative efforts.
Furthermore, Russia and Burundi have signed a Memorandum on cooperation in the peaceful atomic energy sector, covering diverse areas such as nuclear infrastructure development, legal regulations, research, radioisotope production, and personnel training.
In the context of Equatorial Guinea, President Putin engaged in talks with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema in Moscow in 2023. Both leaders expressed mutual interest in enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in the extraction of mineral resources. Equatorial Guinea, known for its significant oil wealth, boasts abundant resources such as gold, diamonds, uranium, and gas.
President Nguema welcomed Russian investments in his country and acknowledged Russia’s role in supporting African independence. He highlighted the need for Africa’s development, emphasizing the importance of utilizing natural resources for the continent’s progress, free from exploitation.
In summary, Putin’s upcoming visits to Burundi and Equatorial Guinea signify Russia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with African nations, fostering collaboration in various sectors, including nuclear energy and resource extraction.
