On the sidelines of the third Russia-Africa forum, Burkina Faso's Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, was received by Mali's President, General Assimi Goïta, in Moscow on October 29, 2026. The meeting took place a few hours after the conclusion of the 2026 Russia-Africa Summit. During the audience, Ouédraogo presented his greetings and admiration to President Goïta. He also conveyed fraternal greetings from Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso and General Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger.
Ouédraogo discussed the Russia-Africa Summit with President Goïta, highlighting the participation of Burkina Faso and Mali. He stated that the meeting allowed him to gather guidance on consolidating bilateral engagements between their countries and the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The Prime Minister emphasized that he received high-level orientations from President Goïta regarding the strengthening of strategic relations between the AES and Russia.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by several ministers, including Yacouba Zabré Gouba (Energy), Aminata Zerbo (Digital Transition), Aboubakar Nacanabo (Economy), and Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré (Foreign Affairs). Close collaborators of the ministers also attended the meeting with President Goïta. The discussion focused on enhancing cooperation between the AES and Russia.
During the meeting, Ouédraogo and his delegation provided a briefing on the Russia-Africa Summit. They shared insights on the summit's outcomes and implications for the AES member states. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the audience and guidance from President Goïta.
The Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) comprises Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The AES aims to promote cooperation and solidarity among its member states. Strengthening ties with Russia is a key aspect of the AES's strategy to diversify partnerships and foster economic growth.
Ouédraogo stated that he left the meeting with renewed energy and commitment to pursue actions aimed at consolidating strategic relations between the AES and Russia. He emphasized the importance of implementing the engagements taken during the summit to foster cooperation and development.
The meeting between Ouédraogo and Goïta underscores the growing cooperation between AES member states and Russia. It highlights the efforts of the AES to strengthen its partnerships with other countries and promote regional stability. The developments in AES-Russia relations are being closely watched by regional and international observers.
Key points
- The meeting between Burkina Faso's PM and Mali's President aimed to consolidate AES-Russia relations.
- The AES comprises Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, and seeks to promote cooperation and solidarity among its member states.
- The developments in AES-Russia relations have implications for regional stability and cooperation.
