Enhanced cooperation with Russia: Mali concludes major agreements during ministerial mission in Moscow

The Minister of Economy and Finance in Mali carried out an official mission to Moscow, Russia, from 12 to 19 November 2023, at the head of a high-level delegation. In addition to the Minister of Economy and Finance, the delegation included several members of the government, such as those from the sectors of Industry and Trade, Transport and Infrastructure, and Mines, as well as executives of the Presidency, from the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs.

The main objective of the mission was to participate in the «International Transport Forum» from 14 to 16 November 2023, at the invitation of the Russian Federation, and continue discussions and negotiations on the implementation of commitments made by Russian state-owned enterprises during the previous mission in October 2023.

In terms of results, the delegation signed a memorandum and continued discussions to implement the agreements reached during the October 2023 mission. In the aerospace sector, a memorandum of understanding and a confidentiality agreement have been signed, and discussions will continue between the technical teams to finalize the specifications.

In the energy sector, in response to the urgent need to strengthen energy production capacities, a 200 megawatt peak (MWp) solar power plant project has been agreed with NOVAWIND. The Bougouni (100 MWp) and Sanankoroba (140 MWp) solar power plants will be built for this purpose. The construction of the 225 kV double terne line Sikasso-Bougouni-Sanankoroba-Bamako must be completed by 31 December 2024.

In an initiative to maximize revenues from gold mining, Mali has signed a memorandum of understanding with Russia for the construction of a new gold refinery with a capacity of 200 tonnes per year. This project will help to increase revenues from gold mining and is part of the country’s desire to strengthen the local processing of mineral resources.