Russia and Central African Republic reaffirm close partnership

The countries’ leaders have discussed political economic and humanitarian cooperation after the CAR’s general election

Russia and the Central African Republic (CAR) have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations, in a telephone conversation between the countries’ presidents on Wednesday. 

During the discussion, the leaders reaffirmed “their mutual commitment to the further development of friendly bilateral ties,” the Kremlin press office said.

This comes as Russia welcomed the outcome of the CAR’s presidential election in December, in which the incumbent, Faustin-Archange Touadera, won with a large majority. 

The Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow “reaffirms its commitment to further strengthening relations between the two countries and continuing close coordination on the international stage.” It added that Russia anticipates the CAR’s further advancement toward steady political and socioeconomic development.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated Touadera on his reelection. The two leaders discussed cooperation in political, trade, economic, and humanitarian areas.

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The African nation held a general election on December 28, with the presidency, legislative seats, and local offices on the ballot. It was the first in the country after a constitutional referendum in 2023 that removed presidential term limits, enabling Touadera to seek a third term.

According to the provisional results, Touadera secured 77.9% of the vote, with turnout reported at over 52% of registered voters.

Diplomatic ties between Russia and the CAR were first established in 1992 following the African state’s independence from France in 1960. Relations developed further in later years, including military and political cooperation. The CAR maintains an embassy in Moscow; Russia operates its diplomatic mission in Bangui.

In recent years, the two countries have expanded cooperation in political dialogue, security, and the economy. 

READ MORE: Central African Republic’s leader says its work with Russia inspires all Africa

At a meeting in January in Moscow, Putin noted that trade turnover between the two countries increased nearly eightfold. Touadera expressed gratitude to the Russian president for grain and fuel supplies, and for supporting the lifting of an embargo on diamond exports. Putin also affirmed Russia’s intent to continue providing humanitarian assistance.