Putin hails strong ties in meeting with Mali leader Goita

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday welcomed Mali's transitional President Assimi Goita in Moscow, marking 65 years of diplomatic relations and calling for stronger cooperation.

Putin said Russia has trained over 10,000 specialists from Mali and that both countries are now working together in energy, mining, logistics, and education.

“Although our trade is still small, it is growing, and we have good opportunities for future work,” he said.

Goita thanked Putin for the invitation and said Mali values its partnership with Russia in many areas including transport, security, culture and energy.

“This official visit will help strengthen our ties,” he added.