In a significant development for West Africa, Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore has attributed the country’s military resurgence against militants to its strategic alliance with Russia.
In an exclusive interview with RT, Traore highlighted that a staggering 74% of the nation’s territory, previously under militant control, has been recovered thanks to innovative military reforms and the expertise of Russian instructors.
Traore’s comments followed a high-profile meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last Thursday, where the two officials underscored the importance of enhancing collaboration across various essential areas. This cooperation is seen as pivotal not only for Burkina Faso but also for the broader Alliance of Sahel States (AES), marking a profound shift in the region’s defence dynamics.
During the discussion, Traore revealed that the two nations have formalised their relations through a series of new agreements aimed at establishing a robust legal framework for future collaboration. This includes the creation of an intergovernmental commission designed to coordinate joint projects and collaborations in higher education and research.
The Bolstering of Burkina Faso’s military apparatus can be traced back to a significant meeting between President Ibrahim Traore and Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg earlier this year. Following this encounter, the relationship has flourished, with Traore describing the trajectory of these ties as “steadily strengthening.”
Addressing recent claims made by Russian intelligence suggesting that France is attempting to destabilise the Sahel region, Traore expressed dismay at these assertions, perceiving them as evidence of a lingering neo-colonialist agenda. Nevertheless, he affirmed that Burkina Faso remains open to partnerships with all nations, provided such relationships are grounded in equality and mutual respect.
Moreover, during his talks with Lavrov, Traore endorsed the need for Sahel nations to improve collaboration against the backdrop of disinformation campaigns that threaten to obscure their security and economic advancements. In this context, he highlighted the importance of transparency and cooperation in safeguarding the positive strides made by countries in the region.
In a nod to the future, Traore confirmed ongoing cooperation with Russia’s Rosatom in the civil nuclear energy sector, with preparations underway for legal frameworks, and Burkinabe students currently receiving training in Russia. He characterised the relationship with Russia as “promising,” noting that the commitment of the involved parties to cultivate an exemplary partnership will significantly shape the future of bilateral ties.
RT News
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