In a momentous event on Thursday, Russia reopened its embassy in Burkina Faso after a closure that lasted since 1992. This marks a significant step in the warming relations between Russia and this Sahelian nation, which, under a military regime since last year, has been actively seeking to broaden its alliances following a notable rift with France.
Amid the ceremonious reopening of the chancellery in Ouagadougou, the Russian ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire accredited to Burkina Faso, Alexeï Saltykov, expressed, “Today, we witness the resumption of activities of the Russian embassy, signaling a renewed chapter of diplomatic ties.” The Russian diplomat, previously based in Abidjan, disclosed plans to temporarily lead the diplomatic mission in Burkina until the formal appointment of an ambassador by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Attending the ceremony were esteemed guests, including Burkinabè Prime Minister Appolinaire Joachimson Kyélèm de Tambéla, Minister of Foreign Affairs Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, other government officials, and the chief of the general staff of Burkina's armed forces.
Despite the closure of the Russian embassy 31 years ago, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, the head of Burkinabe diplomacy, emphasized that the hiatus did not disrupt the ongoing cooperation between the two nations. He acknowledged Russia's role in the training of Burkinabè executives over the years.
Ambassador Saltykov, echoing the commitment to collaboration, highlighted Russia's ongoing support for Burkina Faso's training programs for specialists, both civilian and military. Furthermore, he expressed determination to broaden cooperation in trade and the economy, envisioning an expanded range of products purchased from Russia.
Saltykov concluded optimistically, stating, “We hope that our Burkinabe partners will gradually diversify their purchases from Russia, including agricultural machinery, mineral fertilizers, and equipment for the mining industry.” This reopening ceremony not only reinstates diplomatic ties but sets the stage for a renewed and diversified partnership between Russia and Burkina Faso.