On the sidelines of the Russia-Africa Forum, Malian President Assimi Goïta met with the Malian community in Russia. The meeting was attended by several government officials and was marked by a strong turnout of Malian nationals. The Malian ambassador to Russia, General Seydou Kamissoko, opened the discussion by highlighting the dynamic nature of the Malian diaspora in Russia, comprising students, professionals, and permanent residents.
Ambassador Kamissoko also touched on the challenges faced by some Malian nationals in Russia, including difficulties with administrative regularization and the risk of being drawn into the conflict in Ukraine. Despite these challenges, he emphasized the community's strong support for the Malian government's policies. The president of the Federal Association of Malian Students and Trainees in Russia, Daouda Diabaté, then spoke on behalf of the students, highlighting their desire for support in pursuing their studies and accessing practical training opportunities.
Diabaté also stressed the need for the Malian government to create conditions that would allow graduates to return to the country and contribute to its development. Dr. Joseph Diassana, speaking on behalf of the diaspora, expressed gratitude to the Malian government for its efforts to secure the country and engage with the diaspora. He praised the government's attention to the needs of Malian nationals abroad.
President Goïta's address to the gathering was met with a standing ovation. He highlighted the effectiveness of Mali's military partnership with Russia, which has contributed to the country's stability. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation in areas such as diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and vocational training. The president shared a positive assessment of his visit, including the signing of several bilateral agreements in strategic areas such as energy and transportation.
President Goïta addressed the concerns of the students, assuring them that the government would do everything possible to support their studies in Russia. He emphasized the need for highly qualified professionals to drive Mali's development. The president also warned the diaspora about the risks of disinformation campaigns and urged them to be vigilant. He called on the community to be aware of the manipulations of hostile foreign powers seeking to destabilize Mali.
President Goïta encouraged the young people present to engage with their country and have faith in its future. He drew a historical parallel with Russia, which had overcome significant challenges to become a major power. The president's message was met with applause and enthusiasm from the audience. He concluded by reaffirming the importance of the Sahel Alliance, a regional bloc that aims to promote sovereignty, dignity, and shared prosperity.
The meeting with the Malian diaspora in Russia was a key event for President Goïta during the Russia-Africa Forum. The forum provided a platform for Mali to strengthen its ties with Russia and other African countries. The president's engagement with the diaspora reflects the government's efforts to engage with Malian nationals abroad and involve them in the country's development.
Key points
- President Goïta met with the Malian diaspora in Russia to discuss their concerns and aspirations.
- The president highlighted the importance of Mali's partnership with Russia in areas such as security, diplomacy, and vocational training.
- President Goïta encouraged the diaspora to be vigilant about disinformation campaigns and to engage with their country to contribute to its development.
