Putin holds meetings with African leaders to discuss cooperation

By Kanyshai Butun

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin held separate meetings Friday with African leaders to discuss cooperation on the sidelines of the Third Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, according to the Kremlin.

During talks with the Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Putin described Sudan as an important Russian partner in the Arab world and Africa, noting that trade more than doubled last year and rose another 25% between January and August.

Putin said Russia was closely monitoring the armed conflict in Sudan, which has displaced more than 13 million, according to Russian estimates. He reiterated Moscow's support for ending hostilities and achieving a political settlement, and said the two sides could discuss additional steps to help stabilize the situation.

He also presented a Russian roadmap outlining potential cooperation in digital technologies, healthcare, education and logistics.

Burhan thanked Moscow for its support and proposed expanding economic cooperation, including establishing a free economic zone on the Red Sea, which Russia could use to build stockpiles of fuel and wheat. He said Sudan could offer opportunities for Russian investment in infrastructure, mineral extraction, including copper and gold.

In a meeting with Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina, Putin said relations had gained momentum following their February talks in Moscow. He noted that 5,000 Malagasy students had received education in Russia and highlighted opportunities to expand trade and humanitarian ties.

Randrianirina urged turning the longstanding friendship into a partnership focused on concrete projects.

Putin also met Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, saying bilateral trade increased 6% in the first eight months of the year. He highlighted cooperation in education, political consultations and coordination at international forums.

Mahama said Ghana wanted to strengthen economic ties and cooperate in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, science and technology.

During talks with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, Putin said the countries were working to expand trade and economic cooperation.

Putin met Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadera, noting potential cooperation in energy, mineral exploration, transport and logistics.

He also met Mali's transitional President Assimi Goita, highlighting growing trade ties, cooperation through an intergovernmental commission.