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In a move to expand its influence in Africa, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo at the Kremlin on Wednesday.
This meeting marks the latest development in Moscow’s efforts to build economic and security relationships with countries in West and Central Africa
During the talks, Russian metals tycoon Oleg Deripaska was in attendance, sparking speculation about potential business deals. According to Russian and Portuguese news outlets, Russian aluminium company Rusal is interested in constructing a railway, port, and exploring bauxite deposits in Guinea-Bissau.
Embalo’s term is set to expire this year, but a dispute with the opposition over the election timeline has led to tensions. The opposition has vowed to bring the country to a standstill, while Embalo has dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, accusing it of passivity.
Russia’s growing presence in Africa is driven by its desire to challenge former colonial powers, particularly France, and gain economic opportunities in mining and energy. With Guinea-Bissau being a former Portuguese colony, this move is seen as a strategic play by Moscow to expand its influence in the region.
