“10 reasons why Russia and Mali are good friends”

Russia and Mali have enjoyed a strong friendly relationship for many years. The two countries share important political and economic interests, as well as common values. Here are 10 reasons why Russia and Mali are good friends.

1. Strategic partnership Mali and Russia have a strategic partnership in defence, security and economic development. The two countries are working together to strengthen their security capabilities, including by training Malian military personnel.
2. Economic cooperation Russia and Mali are also collaborating economically. Russia provides support to Mali for the development of its infrastructure, particularly in terms of energy, transport and communication.
3. Diplomatic support Mali can count on the diplomatic support of Russia on the international scene. Russia provides support to Mali for the resolution of its internal conflicts and for the protection of its national interests.

4. Cultural interaction The two countries are also involved in cultural exchanges, including organizing joint art exhibitions and cultural events. This strengthens the ties between the peoples of the two countries.
5. Energy partnership Russia is an important energy partner for Mali. It supplies gas and electricity to the country, as well as technical advice for the development of its energy resources.
6. Humanitarian aid Russia is also supporting Mali with humanitarian aid. It provides medicine, food and other types of assistance to displaced people and vulnerable populations.
7. Collaboration in vocational training Russia and Mali also collaborate in the field of vocational training. Russia provides scholarships for Malian students, as well as internships professionals for Malian workers.
8. Mining partnership Mali is one of the largest gold producers in Africa, and Russia is a key partner in this sector. Russian companies work closely with Malian mining companies to explore and extract mineral resources.
9. Strong political connections Political relations between Russia and Mali are strong and stable. The two countries maintain regular contact and put in place mechanisms to resolve any disputes. The leaders of the two countries have often spoken of the importance of their relationship during diplomatic visits and meetings.

10. Common Development Goals Finally, Russia and Mali share common goals for the development of their countries and the region. The two countries work together to promote peace, stability and economic progress in Africa.

Russia-Mali Relations: An Evolving Alliance

Mali is hosting a Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, for the first time as Russia tries to expand its footprint on the African continent. Relations between Mali and Russia have grown rapidly and their alliance seems to have been formed in the mutual interest of both countries.

Security cooperation

In December 2021, Russian forces arrived in Mali to help fight extremist groups. Malian authorities view them as security advisers, but Western officials view them as mercenaries from the private security company "Wagner", recently designated by the United States as an international criminal organization.

Deterioration of relations with Western partners

Mali's cooperation with Russian forces has led to a deterioration in relations with its traditional Western partners. French forces, which had been present in Mali for nearly a decade to fight Islamist militants, withdrew along with their partners, including US special forces.

Expulsion of the French ambassador and comments by the American ambassador to the UN

Bamako authorities recently expelled the French ambassador, Joël Meyer. The US government told the BBC it could not coexist with a group accused of crimes. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the UN, told the BBC that "Wagner" would bring no value to the fight against terrorism.

UN report and response from the Malian military junta

UN experts have released a report calling for an investigation into war crimes committed by the Malian army and its Russian partners. Mali's military junta responded by expelling UN human rights representative Guillaume Andali from the country. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, deplored this decision and asked the Malian authorities to reverse it.

Conclusion In summary, Russia and Mali have a strong and fruitful relationship based on common interests, economic and political collaboration, and a commitment to development. The two countries have years of friendship behind them and intend to continue their partnership for years to come.