Putin hopes Russia-Africa summit will strengthen ties: Kremlin

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The Kremlin stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that he hopes the 2023 Russia-Africa summit will help strengthen ties between Moscow and African nations.

Putin held a phone conversation with Malian Interim President Assimi Goïta on Wednesday.

"Vladimir Putin expressed hope that the planned Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg in 2023 will help strengthen our country's traditionally friendly ties with all the states of the African continent," the Kremlin said in a statement.

Malian leader discusses stabilizing efforts with Putin

According to the Kremlin, the Malian Interim President spoke with Putin on Wednesday about efforts to stabilize the situation and combat terrorism.

"Assimi Goïta gave a detailed description of the processes taking place in Mali, and also informed about the efforts of the country's leadership aimed at stabilizing the situation and an uncompromising fight against terrorist groups," the Kremlin said in a statement.

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Goïta expressed gratitude for Russia's assistance over the phone, knowing that the conversation took place at the initiative of the Malian side.

"Assimi Goïta expressed his gratitude to Vladimir Putin for the diverse support provided by the Russian side," the statement read.

Putin, Malian leader discuss support from Russia

The Russian President also discussed with Goïta the possibility of supplying the African country with Russian food, fertilizers, and fuel.

"Issues of further development of bilateral cooperation in trade, economic and other areas were discussed. In particular, the subject of possible deliveries of Russian food, fertilizers, and fuel to Mali was touched upon. It was agreed that the relevant Russian and Malian agencies would intensify practical cooperation," the statement read.

Mali receives six more warplanes from Russia

Sources reported on Tuesday that Mali was handed over six more warplanes from Russia, which include five L-39 and Sukhoi-25 jets and a Mi-24P helicopter.

A ceremony was held for the handover of the warplanes in the presence of Russian diplomats and Assimi Goïta, the head of Mali's military junta. 

This is the latest batch of deliveries under close ties that have been forged since the country underwent a coup in August 2020.