Russia, Mali Sign Nuclear Cooperation and Trade Expansion Deals

Russia and Mali have signed multiple agreements to strengthen their trade and economic relations, highlighted by cooperation in nuclear energy and natural resource development. During a two-hour meeting in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin and Mali's military leader Colonel Assimi Goita discussed expanding ties in geological exploration, energy, logistics, and humanitarian projects, while acknowledging current trade remains modest but on an upward trend. A notable project includes the ongoing construction of a Russian-backed gold refinery in Mali, which will significantly increase the country's gold processing capacity and meet international certification standards, aiming to give Mali greater control over its resources. The two countries have also explored building a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant, signaling a strategic energy partnership. Russian mercenary groups have supported Goita's government following the withdrawal of French and U.N. forces, with the Wagner Group leaving recently but the Africa Corps still active in Mali. These developments reflect Mali's pivot toward Russia amid a broader regional trend of deepening Russia-Africa ties following military coups in West Africa.