President Putin hosted Guinea-Bissau’s President Embalo in Moscow to discuss strengthening economic and security ties, showcasing Russia’s interest in expanding influence in West and Central Africa. The meeting explored potential investments by Russian firms in Guinea-Bissau amid ongoing domestic political disputes and unrest in the country.
On Wednesday, President Vladimir Putin held discussions with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, at the Kremlin. This meeting signals Russia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic and security ties with West and Central African nations. Oleg Deripaska, a Russian metals magnate, was also present during the talks, highlighting the business interests involved.
Guinea-Bissau’s government has reportedly engaged with Russian aluminium company Rusal for potential infrastructure development, including a railway and port project, as well as bauxite exploration. Embalo, who has been in office since 2020, is currently embroiled in a political dispute regarding the timing of elections as his term nears its end this year. Opposition groups are challenging his mandate, leading to threats of protests.
The recent political instability includes claims from Embalo of two coup attempts, the latest occurring in December 2023, which involved armed confrontations in the capital. Following these events, he dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, citing their inactivity regarding national governance.
Russia’s engagement with African nations over recent years has included deploying mercenaries to assist military regimes in combating insurgencies. The specifics of any military or security agreements discussed during the Putin-Embalo meeting remain unclear, but Russia seeks to exploit economic opportunities in the region, particularly in mining and energy sectors.
Through its initiatives in Guinea-Bissau, Russia aims to diminish the influence of former colonial powers, primarily France. Guinea-Bissau, a former Portuguese territory, gained independence in 1974, and the current government is navigating complex political challenges while seeking foreign investments.
The meeting between Russia’s President Putin and Guinea-Bissau’s President Embalo underscores Moscow’s strategic efforts to enhance its influence in Africa amidst ongoing political turmoil in Guinea-Bissau. The discussions point towards potential significant economic investments by Russia, while also illustrating the broader geopolitical context of Russia’s engagements in Africa against former colonial powers. Overall, this continues to reflect a shift in global power dynamics within the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
