After a 31-year break, Russia has reopened its embassy in Burkina Faso, signaling a major change in the West African country’s foreign policy following the coup in September 2022 that strained diplomatic ties with Paris.
Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela of Burkina Faso, Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, and other government representatives attended the reopening event in Ouagadougou. The longstanding and cordial relationship between the two nations was emphasized by Alexei Saltikov, the Russian ambassador to Ivory Coast, who emphasized mutual respect and trust as guiding ideals.
Resuming diplomatic relations is seen as a powerful indication of the quality of bilateral relations and a testament to the unwavering affinity between the peoples of Burkina Faso and Russia. This occasion is seen as a turning point in Russian-Burkinabe relations, bringing in a new phase of mutually beneficial cooperation. The declaration that an ambassador will soon be appointed to Ouagadougou serves as another confirmation of the improved relations.
As a show of support and solidarity, Russia promised to send 25,000 tons of wheat to Burkina Faso as emergency relief. Moscow also reaffirmed its determination to support Burkina Faso militarily and with security in the fight against terrorism.
Prime Minister de Tambela of Burkina Faso emphasized that political and commercial relations between the two countries have endured despite the closing of the embassy thirty years ago. With this diplomatic reconnection, Foreign Minister Traore expressed hope about the relationship, anticipating further prospects for development and successful partnerships.
