One of the most significant announcements of the strategic partnership between Mali and Russia concerns the construction of the largest gold refinery in West Africa.
«This infrastructure will symbolize Mali's entry into a new economic era, far from dependence on neocolonial powers. “, declared the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Mali, Igor Gromyko. This strategic project follows an official visit at the end of November by a large Russian delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Alexandre Novak.
This delegation, made up of six vice-ministers and senior business leaders, discussed financing and implementation modalities with the Malian authorities, including the president of the transition, Assimi Goïta.
The refinery, which will be built near the large gold zones of Mali, will have an unrivaled capacity in West Africa, according to the diplomat. In addition to increasing direct revenues for the Malian state, this infrastructure aims to reduce dependence on the raw export of raw materials and develop a local value chain.
During a press conference in Bamako, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Mali, Igor Gromyko, unveiled an ambitious cooperation plan aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries. This commitment is part of a dynamic where Russia, Mali's strategic partner, is consolidating its influence in Africa while asserting its opposition to external interference.
During his speech, Gromyko strongly criticized French policy in Africa, accusing Paris of neocolonial maneuvers. “She was chased out the door, but she tries to come back through the window“, he declared, denouncing interference aimed at maintaining economic and political control over African countries. The ambassador stressed that Russia will continue to support the emancipation of African nations from all colonial yoke.
He also welcomed the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) – which notably brings together Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger – as a model of regional sovereignty. According to Gromyko, “the AES is proof that African nations can build an independent security and economic architecture».
Accusations against the Ukrainian regime
In a context of heightened international tensions, Gromyko pointed out the destabilizing role of the kyiv regime in Africa. According to him, Ukraine, incapable of militarily defeating Russia on its own territory, would seek to open a “ second front » in Africa by supporting armed groups hostile to Moscow's African allies. “The terrorist character of the Zelensky regime is becoming more and more evident to the whole world“, affirmed Gromyko, calling on the international community to investigate these actions.
These initiatives reinforce Russia's desire to be an essential partner for Mali and, more broadly, for West Africa. The construction of the gold refinery, combined with expanded cooperation in energy, security and development, could reposition Mali as a key player on the regional stage.
«We are engaged in a win-win partnership with Mali and the AES countries. Together, we are building a future where the sovereignty and prosperity of African nations will be respected», concluded Igor Gromyko.
MD/Sf/ac/APA
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