Mali's Goïta observes Russian military exercise
Malian President Assimi Goïta attended a live-fire drill during his visit to Moscow for the Russia-Africa summit.
Malian President Assimi Goïta observed a live-fire military exercise on a Russian army base during his visit to Moscow. The event occurred on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa summit held on October 28 and 29. Images of Goïta firing a weapon four times were broadcast on Malian national television, ORTM.
The Malian leader attended the exercise after watching local soldiers demonstrate their skills. The footage showed Goïta himself participating in the shooting drill. This observation took place during his trip to Moscow for the third Russia-Africa Summit.
Goïta also met with Niger's President Abdourahamane Tiani in Niamey on November 5. They discussed security within the Sahel States Confederation and the fight against armed groups, claiming success. They also addressed diplomatic coordination, free movement of people and goods, transport infrastructure, and resource exploitation.
Why it mattersMalian President Assimi Goïta's participation in a Russian military exercise and his diplomatic meetings with regional leaders affect Mali's security and international relations.