Russian President Vladimir Putin recently hosted the President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, at the Kremlin, marking another step in Russia’s efforts to bolster its economic and security ties with West and Central African countries.

This meeting is part of Russia’s broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa, with a focus on increasing trade, military cooperation, energy, and diplomacy.

Russia’s trade volume with Africa currently stands at $24.5 billion, significantly lower than that of other major global players like China and the United States. However, Moscow is working to change this narrative.

The recent meeting between Putin and Embaló follows the signing of a memorandum on economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Russia and Guinea-Bissau.

Russian metals tycoon Oleg Deripaska was present at the talks, and the Russian Ministry of Economic Development announced that the agreement was signed by Russian Minister of Economy Maxim Reshetnikov and Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Integration, Soares Sambu.

This partnership is expected to facilitate trade development, eliminate obstacles to the free movement of goods and services, and modernize industries in both countries.

Guinea-Bissau is rich in natural resources, including bauxite, and Russia’s interest in the country is not surprising. Previously, Angola had been granted a concession in the bauxite sector, but it was later relinquished.

Russian company Rusal ultimately secured the concession, highlighting Russia’s growing presence in Africa’s extractive industries.

Russia seeks to expand its influence in Africa, and its long-term impact on the continent’s economic and security landscape remains to be seen. While Moscow positions itself as a reliable ally to African nations, the effectiveness of its assistance remains a subject of debate.