On October 29, 2026, Burkinabè Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo delivered a message from President Ibrahim Traoré at the high-level panel of the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow. The President emphasized the need for concrete implementations of the strategic partnership between Russia and Africa. He expressed Burkina Faso's ambition to see the foundations laid in 2019 and 2023 translate into tangible achievements that meet the aspirations of the people. This ambition is based on a clear conception of cooperation, built on mutual respect, reciprocity, and the transfer of know-how.
A key aspect of this cooperation is the training of young people in cutting-edge technologies and strategic domains. Burkina Faso aims to enable more Burkinabè and African youths to receive training in Russia and return to their countries to contribute to their development. This initiative is part of a broader vision to strengthen the partnership between Russia and Africa. President Traoré's message highlighted the importance of freedom for peoples to determine their own future. Under his leadership, Burkina Faso has sought to break away from unequal partnerships and tutelage.
The country's diversification of relationships is driven by the desire to control its resources and choose partners based on mutual interests. This dynamic is also being built with Mali and Niger within the framework of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). President Traoré's message also praised the bravery and selflessness of forces engaged in the fight against terrorism. Their efforts have allowed for the reconquest of localities, the reopening of schools, and the gradual return of life to affected areas.
The President recalled the historical roots of the friendship between Africa and Russia, including the support provided by the Soviet Union to young African states. He noted that the legacy of this friendship continues to nourish the desire to consolidate a respectful and dignified cooperation. This requirement for dignity extends to Africa's place in global governance. President Traoré called for respect for international law and reform of institutions responsible for its implementation.
In his message, President Traoré emphasized that Africa will not be treated as a battlefield, a reservoir of raw materials, or a mere vote in an assembly. Instead, it seeks to be a land of dignity. This affirmation underscores that the value of a partnership is also measured by its ability to recognize the choices of peoples and strengthen their control over their destiny. Burkina Faso expects concrete initiatives from this summit that will bring about tangible changes for its populations.
The country is counting on the friendship between Ouagadougou and Moscow to achieve this goal. President Traoré has set a course for a sincere, transparent, and balanced partnership that does not require Africa to choose a side but to choose its own future. This approach is in line with Burkina Faso's aspirations for a more equitable and respectful relationship with its partners.
The Russia-Africa Summit provides a platform for leaders to discuss and address the challenges facing the continent. Burkina Faso's participation in the summit reflects its commitment to strengthening ties with Russia and other African countries. The country's expectations from the summit are centered on concrete actions that will improve the lives of its citizens and contribute to the development of the region.
Key points
- President Ibrahim Traoré calls for concrete commitments from Russia-Africa partnership
- Burkina Faso seeks to strengthen cooperation with Russia in areas such as technology and security
- The country emphasizes the importance of dignity and respect in international relations
