Burkina Faso: Working visit by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak to Ouagadougou

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak arrived in Ouagadougou late on Thursday, November 28, 2024, heading a high-level delegation. Comprised of government officials, parliamentarians, and private sector representatives from the Russian Federation, the delegation’s visit underscores Moscow’s commitment to strengthening ties with Burkina Faso.

At Ouagadougou International Airport, Novak and his team were greeted by a senior Burkinabe delegation led by the Minister of State for Defense and Veterans Affairs.

Accompanying him were key government officials, including the Ministers of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, along with senior representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation.

This official visit, framed as a gesture of friendship and deepened bilateral cooperation, commenced with a technical meeting upon the delegation’s arrival. Defense ministers from both nations engaged in discussions aimed at fortifying strategic partnerships, particularly in security and defense.

On the morning of Friday, November 29, Novak and his delegation are set to participate in a working session with their Burkinabe counterparts, led by Prime Minister Appolinaire Joachimson Kyélem de Tambèla.

The session will focus on advancing key areas of collaboration, touching on sectors critical to development and national security.

This visit highlights the evolving partnership between Ouagadougou and Moscow, marked by the signing of several agreements. These accords reflect the robust momentum of cooperation and a shared commitment to mutual growth.

Additionally, the trip forms part of a broader regional tour by the Russian delegation, which includes visits to the three member states of the Sahel Alliance. This initiative underscores Russia’s growing engagement in this strategically significant region.

Olivier TOE