The governments of Togo and Russia have agreed to broaden their cooperation to new areas, including mining and energy, after a three-day intergovernmental meeting concluded in Lomé on October 1. This development marks a new stage in the bilateral relations between the two countries, with Russia viewing Togo as a potential anchor point in the Gulf of Guinea. The meeting was the first session of the Intergovernmental Commission on Cooperation.
The sectors that will benefit from the expanded partnership include mining, electricity, and hydrocarbons. According to a communiqué from the Togolese presidency, the agreement involves strengthening geological expertise and leveraging new technologies in the mining sector. Additionally, the partnership aims to improve access to electricity and manage hydrocarbons more effectively. These initiatives were discussed during the meeting, which was attended by experts from both countries.
The Russian Minister of Energy, Sergueï Tsivilev, was present in Lomé on Thursday, following a visit to the Central African Republic, another Russian ally on the continent. The presence of high-ranking officials from Russia underscores the importance that Moscow places on its relations with Togo. The two countries have been strengthening their ties in recent years, with a focus on cooperation in various fields.
During the opening of the discussions on September 29, Angelina Zuikova, responsible for African countries at the Russian Ministry of Economic Development, highlighted Togo's importance as a partner on the continent in commercial, economic, cultural, and humanitarian domains. She also mentioned that joint agreements would be signed in science and education, further solidifying the bilateral relationship.
The rapprochement between Togo and Russia has been a gradual process. In 2025, the two countries signed a military cooperation agreement that allows Moscow to send military instructors, ships, and aircraft to Togo. This agreement reflects Russia's ambition to establish a stronger presence in West Africa, with Togo serving as a strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea.
However, the growing presence of Russia in Togo has raised some concerns. Last week, Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey stated that there were no Russian mercenaries in the country. Earlier, the opposition had expressed worries about the alleged presence of foreign forces in the north, aimed at supporting the army against jihadists. These concerns highlight the complexities surrounding international partnerships.
The Togolese-Russian partnership is set to evolve further, with concrete actions expected in the mining and energy sectors. The agreements reached during the intergovernmental meeting are expected to enhance cooperation and mutual benefits for both countries. As Russia continues to expand its influence in Africa, Togo's strategic location makes it an important partner in the region.
Key points
- Russia views Togo as a potential anchor point in the Gulf of Guinea.
- The partnership between Togo and Russia will focus on mining, electricity, and hydrocarbons.
- The expanded cooperation is a result of a three-day intergovernmental meeting in Lomé.
