Russia-Africa summits boost security but little Malian investment
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Studio Tamani
Russia-Africa summits have strengthened diplomatic and security cooperation with Mali, but their economic and humanitarian commitments have largely not materialised. Logistical obstacles, sanctions on Russia and payment systems are holding back investment, according to analysts Hossene Ben Bamba and Pierre Claver Bakoroba Traoré, cited by Studio Tamani.
The third Russia-Africa summit opened on Wednesday 28 October in Moscow with about 20 African leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin taking part. Previous summits have strengthened security cooperation between Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) countries — Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger — but have produced few concrete economic results for Mali, according to two observers cited by Studio Tamani.
International relations specialist Hossene Ben Bamba believes that many agreements and memorandums signed at previous meetings have not led to industrial projects or infrastructure. He points to logistical obstacles and difficulties linked to international payment systems, amid sanctions targeting Russia.
Lecturer and researcher Pierre Claver Bakoroba Traoré notes an increase in military exchanges and Russian arms acquisitions by AES countries. He considers the economic benefits limited and says Russia’s promises of grain aid have not been fully honoured, according to Studio Tamani.
