Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has concluded a high-profile tour of Africa, visiting Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.
These three nations, currently governed by transitional military councils, have recently aligned themselves with Russia following the annulment of military cooperation agreements with France and the subsequent expulsion of French forces from their territories.
Niger was the final stop on Novak’s tour, where he led a high-ranking delegation comprising ministers, parliamentarians, and private sector representatives.
He engaged in discussions with several Nigerien officials and met with the country’s transitional president, General Abdourahmane Tiani.
During his visit, Novak stated, as per a Russian government communiqué on Telegram, that “significant projects aimed at improving the lives of the population are being implemented, including access to electricity and the development of transport infrastructure.”
Coinciding with Novak’s visit, Niger received a “substantial shipment of military equipment” from Russia, according to the Nigerien Ministry of Defense.
The delivery underscores deepening military cooperation between the two nations.
Prior to his arrival in Niger, Novak visited Burkina Faso on a “friendship and working visit.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ouagadougou described the visit as focused on “strengthening the partnership” between Burkina Faso and Moscow.
The tour began in Mali, where Novak held discussions with interim President General Assimi Goïta.
According to Malian media, the talks centered on enhancing cooperation in key areas such as security, energy, infrastructure, transportation, and agriculture.
Novak expressed Russia’s commitment to elevating its relations with Mali to a “strategic level,” emphasizing the importance of collaboration in “counterterrorism and economic development.”
All three nations have hosted high-level Russian delegations in recent months, signaling a growing partnership.
Their leaders have also made visits to Moscow, solidifying agreements across various sectors, further signaling a shift in their geopolitical alliances.
