Central African Republic president praises Russia for help in preventing civil war in 2021

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - President Faustin Archange Touadera said Thursday that Russia's support was essential in preventing a civil war in 2021 in the Central African Republic (CAR).

"I would like to take this opportunity during my official visit to reaffirm my gratitude, and that of the people of the Central African Republic, for your assistance, which helped us avert a new civil war in 2020–2021," Touadera said in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

He also acknowledged Russia's role in supporting the lifting of am arms embargo and restrictions on diamond exports, which had hindered the CAR's full sovereignty, as well as ensuring critical supplies of grain and fuel.

"On behalf of our people, I extend my sincere gratitude to you, Mr. President, and to the Russian Federation for your steadfast support, which not only restored stability to our country but also solidified our position among sovereign states," he added.

Touadera emphasized his desire to discuss cooperative efforts during his visit, including security, economic development, agriculture, mining, geology, energy and animal husbandry.

"In terms of security, we have made significant progress in restoring peace and stability across our territory. Today, our army, trained by Russian instructors, is capable of defending against terrorists and anyone threatening the territorial integrity of the Central African Republic," he noted.

The CAR president expressed his intention to deepen cooperation with Russia to further strengthen national security, including border protection, highlighting the professionalism of Russian instructors.

"To build on this collaboration, we have intensified the training of our military personnel and received military equipment," said Touadera.

He also emphasized the CAR's interest in expanding cooperation in agriculture, technology exchange and mining.

Putin, in turn, highlighted substantial progress made in the legal and economic foundations of bilateral cooperation.

"Economic cooperation has shown impressive growth, with trade turnover increasing eight-fold over the past year," said Putin. He reiterated Russia's commitment to maintaining security cooperation and coordinating efforts on international platforms, including the UN.