Mali's leader Assimi Goita met with Tatarstan's head Rustam Minnikhanov during his visit to the republic, according to the press service of the Rais of Tatarstan.
"The positions of Russia and Mali are closely aligned on numerous issues, including the development of a multipolar world order, international security, combating terrorism, and other areas. Promising fields of cooperation include geological exploration, development of mineral resources, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, fishing, and humanitarian connections," Minnikhanov stated.
The Rais of the republic highlighted the favorable opportunities for developing trade and economic cooperation between Tatarstan and Mali. He noted that the "Mi" series helicopters produced in Kazan and Tatarstan's KAMAZ trucks, multiple winners of the Dakar Rally, are well-known in Africa.
"We believe there are good prospects in working with Mali in the fields of engineering, processing industries, agriculture, and innovation," said the head of Tatarstan, adding that he would be pleased to welcome a Malian delegation next year at the "Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum."
Assimi Goita expressed gratitude for the warm reception and stated that Mali is interested in expanding its ties with Tatarstan.
"Your republic is one of Russia's most advanced regions with significant economic potential. We are keen to cooperate with KAMAZ and other enterprises of Tatarstan. The groundwork has been laid—Yadran company will construct a refinery in Mali. We should expand other joint projects as well," added the West African leader.
Following the meeting, Rustam Minnikhanov and Assimi Goita met in the Kazan Kremlin with Malian students studying at universities in Tatarstan.
The President of Mali arrived in Russia on June 22 and laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Alexander Garden on June 23. He also held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The discussions resulted in the signing of three documents aimed at strengthening the legal framework for cooperation between the countries, including an agreement on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Previously, Putin and Goita met in July 2023 at the Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg, marking the Malian leader's first visit to Russia. At that time, the Russian president noted that Moscow views Bamako as "one of the partners in the region."
Alina Makeeva
