The presidents of Russia Vladimir Putin and Guinea-Bissa, Umaro Sissoco Embalo met in Moscow on Tuesday, the first-ever meeting of the leaders of the two countries.
Vladimir Putin and Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who also currently heads the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), discussed a range of bilateral and international issues during their meeting in the Russian capital.
“I also pass on the message of all 15 countries representing the CEDEAO/ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), to discuss today’s situation of the war between two sister nations – Russia and Ukraine, (to discuss) not only the question of grain and wheat, but the world that is blocked”, he said.
As our countries mark 50 years of diplomatic ties next year, we still have to do a lot to develop trade, economic, and humanitarian ties, Putin was quoted as saying in a Kremlin statement.
He said Russia is determined to further develop its relations with Guinea-Bissau and all African countries.
War between Russia and its neighbour erupted about 9 months ago, leading to thousands of death and its consequences continue to disrupt the global economy.
The International Monetary Fund estimates that global inflation will peak at 9.5% this year, but it will bite hardest in developing countries.
“And, most importantly, the trade volume growth rate is very good. We hope that a significant contribution will be made to the development of relations both with your country and members of the organization, and the entire African continent in general during your presidency in ECOWAS,” he told Embalo.
Putin added that Russia will hold the second Russia-Africa summit next year in St. Petersburg. Embalo emphasised that Guinea-Bissau remains “an unwavering partner” for Russia.
On the war in Ukraine, he said the conflict and consequent issues such as the halt in grain and fertiliser exports “blocked progress” all over the world.
He expressed his hope “to find a way to establish a dialogue” between Russia and Ukraine.
Hailing Russia’s role and influence in Africa, Embalo said he would like to discuss security issues in West Africa with Putin.
He added that Guinea-Bissau wants to buy warships and helicopters from Russia, a proposal that Putin said would be given due consideration.