Bangui is seeking stronger ties with Moscow in agriculture, mining, and security, visiting Faustin-Archange Touadera tells Putin
The partnership between Russia and the Central African Republic (CAR) “has become a model for all of Africa,” CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera has stated during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Thursday.
Highlighting his country’s aspirations for economic growth, Touadera noted the CAR’s interest in Russian investments, particularly in agriculture and mineral extraction. He pointed out the nation’s untapped potential in agriculture, with over 15 million hectares of arable land, but stressed the need for specialists and equipment.
“We would like Russian investors to contribute more to projects related to agriculture and livestock to diversify the export of cotton and peanuts,” he explained.
Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the growing economic ties between the two nations, noting that, in 2024, their trade turnover surged eightfold.
Touadera expressed gratitude to the Russian leader for grain and fuel supplies, and for supporting the lifting of an embargo on diamond exports. Putin also affirmed Russia’s willingness to continue providing humanitarian assistance.
With Russia’s support, the CAR intends to continue its fight against terrorism within the country. “In terms of security, we have made significant progress in restoring peace and stability across our entire territory,” the CAR’s President said. Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to aiding the CAR in its fight against terrorism. “We intend to continue in this direction, as we have been doing,” the Russian leader said.
According to Federation Council Chairwoman Valentina Matvienko, the visit to Russia of the CAR’s president highlights the strong friendship between the two nations. She expressed confidence that the trip would usher in a new phase of expanded cooperation and deeper ties between the countries.
Russia and the CAR have signed a memorandum to enhance cooperation in agriculture, the Russian Ministry of Agriculture announced on Wednesday.
The agreement, signed by Russian Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut and CAR’s Agriculture Minister Gismala Hamza, focuses on strengthening trade, economic, and scientific collaboration. Discussions during the meeting included expanding bilateral trade and cooperation in areas such as scientific research, breeding, and seed production.
Touadera’s visit to Moscow follows discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin last year. In November, the leaders explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in political, economic, humanitarian, and other areas.
He arrived in Moscow on Wednesday morning and will depart during the weekend. The previous bilateral talks between Putin and Touadera took place on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg in July 2023.
