Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Benin Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari discussed the need to consolidate the efforts of countries in the Sahara-Sahel region to counter jihadist groups, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported following the telephone conversation between the ministers.
"The ministers exchanged views on various aspects of Russian-Benin relations, including the development of political dialogue, the expansion of trade, economic, and humanitarian ties. When discussing African issues, emphasis was placed on the deteriorating situation in the Sahara-Sahel region due to the growing terrorist threat. In this context, the need to coordinate the efforts of regional countries to counter jihadist groups was noted," the ministry specified.
The Russian diplomatic department reported that the Foreign Minister of Benin expressed his deep condolences "to the families and relatives of the victims of the terrorist attack in Crocus City Hall," and conveyed the Beninese solidarity with the Russian people. He also expressed confidence that all those responsible for this inhumane crime will be punished appropriately.
The conversation was initiated by the Benin's side.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Based on materials from TASS