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Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso at the Kremlin on Thursday, marking another significant step in Moscow’s deepening engagement with African nations since 2022.
During the meeting, Putin praised Sassou Nguesso for his efforts in strengthening Russian-Congolese relations, highlighting their collaboration across political, trade, and international platforms. Putin acknowledged Sassou Nguesso’s active participation in Russia-Africa summits and credited him for advancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
Sassou Nguesso, on his second visit to Russia within a year, expressed the mutual desire to enhance ties further, emphasizing discussions on energy, trade, and security cooperation. The visit is expected to culminate in the signing of agreements aimed at bolstering these areas of collaboration.
In recognition of his contributions, Putin awarded Sassou Nguesso with the Order of Honor, underscoring the significance of their diplomatic efforts.
Russia’s outreach to African nations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen partnerships and diversify international alliances amidst Western sanctions linked to the Ukraine conflict. While African countries have largely maintained a neutral stance on the conflict, they have advocated for peace talks and a cessation of hostilities.
As Russia continues to deepen its ties with Africa, engagements like the meeting between Putin and Sassou Nguesso underscore the growing importance of African partnerships in Russia’s global diplomatic agenda.
