Putin Meets Guinea-Bissau Leader to Boost Russia-Africa Ties (Credit: Reuters)
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Guinea-Bissau’s leader, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, in Moscow on Wednesday. According to Reuters, this meeting is part of Russia’s efforts to strengthen its economic and security relationships with countries in West and Central Africa.
During the talks, Russian metals tycoon Oleg Deripaska was also present. Reports suggest that Deripaska’s company, Rusal, is interested in building a railway and port in Guinea-Bissau, as well as exploring for bauxite, a key material used to make aluminum.
Guinea-Bissau, a small West African nation and former Portuguese colony, has faced political instability in recent years. Embalo, who became president in 2020, has accused the opposition of trying to overthrow him twice, including an incident in December 2023 that led to gunfire and clashes in the capital. After the unrest, Embalo dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, claiming it was not doing enough to address the crisis.
Russia has been increasing its presence in Africa by offering security support to several countries. This includes sending mercenaries to help African leaders fight insurgents and secure their power. While it’s unclear if such deals were discussed during the meeting, Russia’s strategy is to make money through government fees and investments in mining and energy, while reducing the influence of former colonial powers like France in the region.
For Guinea-Bissau, the talks with Russia could bring new opportunities for infrastructure development and economic growth. However, the country is also dealing with internal political tensions, as the opposition plans protests over disputes about when the next election should be held.
As Russia continues to build ties in Africa, this meeting highlights its growing role on the continent, offering both opportunities and challenges for countries like Guinea-Bissau.
Source: Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/world/putin-hosts-guinea-bissau-leader-russia-builds-africa-ties-2025-02-26