On a trip to Moscow (Russia) last week, Abdoulaye Diop, Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussed on November 11, 2021 with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on several subjects including economic and commercial development between their two countries.
According to the Malian diplomat, Russia was “one of the first to assist Mali in various fields, and not just military”. His country has several types of “untapped” potential, he said, adding that trade can follow several axes. For example, Russian companies may wish to work with Malian cotton since Mali is “the leading African producer” in this area.
“Mali is also the third largest gold producer on the African continent, after South Africa and Ghana. More generally, in the mining sector, we know that Mali has significant potential in terms of oil resources that are not yet exploited. And Russia is now a world-leading producer, ”said Abdoulaye Diop.
He added: “We hope that Russia, through its experience, expertise and technology, can also help in the exploration of mineral resources. Beyond oil, there are many other minerals and we can work together to add value to these resources, not just export minerals outside. So we really want the basis of the relationship to be broadened in a win – win spirit ”.