• Togo’s President meets Putin to deepen bilateral ties in Moscow
  
  
• Talks focus on security, diplomacy, and opening embassies
  
  
• Russia, Togo advance military cooperation amid rising Sahel insecurity
  

Togolese Council President, Faure Gnassingbé, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday to strengthen bilateral partnership, according to a statement from Togo's presidency.

The leaders discussed cooperation in diplomatic, commercial, economic, human capital and security matters, particularly relating to stability in West Africa and the Sahel region. Putin emphasized plans to intensify relations through two key channels: the opening of embassies and the beginning of intergovernmental commission work.

Gnassingbé highlighted Moscow's support in combating insecurity and terrorism in Sahel nations. The meeting continues consultations between both parties in recent months aimed at strengthening multilateral cooperation around peace, security and development.

In October, Russia approved ratification of a military cooperation agreement with Togo to deepen defense ties, military training and security information exchange. The West African country seeks to diversify its partnerships amid increased armed attacks in its northern region, while the Kremlin aims to consolidate Russia's presence in West Africa.

Lydie Mobio