In a recent telephone conversation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assured Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop of Moscow's readiness to assist Mali in improving its military effectiveness and counterterrorism efforts.
“Russia is committed to continuing its support for Bamako in addressing urgent socio-economic challenges, enhancing the combat readiness of the national armed forces, and training military and law enforcement personnel to combat persistent terrorist threats,” the Russian Foreign Ministry stated.
The two foreign ministers also discussed the ongoing development of their traditionally friendly bilateral relations, exploring opportunities to strengthen cooperation in political, trade, economic, humanitarian, and other fields.
The conversation was initiated by the Malian side.
Last week, the situation in northeastern Mali near the Algerian border sharply deteriorated. On July 25-26, Malian government forces in the Tinzaouaten area were attacked by a large group of terrorists, including armed Tuareg rebels, members of the “Group for the Victory of Islam and Muslims” (an Al-Qaeda affiliate banned in Russia), and the “Islamic State in the Greater Sahara” (an affiliate of the Islamic State, also banned in Russia).
The fighting resulted in significant losses for the Malian armed forces, both in personnel and equipment, as acknowledged by the General Staff.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on TASS materials