President of the Central African Republic, Faustin-Archangel Touadera, visited Moscow to strengthen ties with Russia, focusing on economic and military cooperation. The meeting discussed agricultural and humanitarian aid, as well as a potential Russian military base in CAR, indicative of evolving geopolitical relations following an arms embargo lift.
The President of the Central African Republic (CAR), Faustin-Archangel Touadera, is on a mission to Moscow to bolster economic and military ties with Russia amidst changing dynamics in Africa. This visit marks his reception as the first leader in the Kremlin this year, emphasizing the importance of bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and humanitarian domains. Key discussions included a memorandum on natural resource management ratified by the CAR and Russia before the meeting.
During the Kremlin talks, Touadera expressed gratitude for Russian support, particularly in the form of wheat and fuel deliveries, underscoring the significance of cooperation in security, economy, agriculture, mining, livestock, and energy. Russian President Vladimir Putin noted a substantial surge in trade, almost eightfold in the past year, and assured ongoing humanitarian assistance, specifically regarding food supply, particularly wheat.
Military collaboration was a focal point, as over ten Central African soldiers have undergone training by Russian instructors. The possibility of establishing a Russian military base in eastern CAR was discussed, particularly following the withdrawal of French and American forces. Although this base was not officially acknowledged, the discussions likely occurred during Touadera’s visit.
Touadera’s presence in Moscow follows the United Nations Security Council’s recent lift of the arms embargo on CAR and the easing of diamond export restrictions. He thanked Russia, particularly Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, for their support, which includes protection from the rebel factions by former Russian paramilitary group Wagner.
Previously, Touadera and Putin met during the Russia-Africa summit in July 2023. The Russian embassy in CAR anticipated that this visit would strengthen bilateral partnerships, particularly in the realm of security, as desired during prior discussions between the two leaders.
The Central African Republic has seen a significant shift in its international relationships, particularly with Russia, amid a backdrop of instability characterized by conflict and economic challenges since 2013. Historically, nations like France and the United States held considerable influence in the region, making Russia’s growing presence crucial. This visit highlights CAR’s efforts to establish strong military and economic alliances with Russia as it navigates a changing geopolitical landscape.
President Touadera’s mission to Moscow signifies an important step in enhancing CAR’s economic and military cooperation with Russia. The meetings focused on various sectors, underscoring the mutual benefits of their partnership, especially in military training and humanitarian aid. Furthermore, the discussions surrounding a potential Russian military base in CAR reflect the evolving security dynamics in the region, particularly following a historic arms embargo lift by the UN.
Original Source: www.agenzianova.com
