Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with the interim President of Mali Assimi Guita on the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 30, 2026) Vladimir Putin: We appreciate that despite the difficult situation in the region, you found the time to visit us and participate in the Third Russia. Summit of Africa. In May, a major interstate agreement on the foundations of our relations entered into force. This month, in October 1960, we celebrated the 66th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. We greatly appreciate your personal commitment to advancing our partnership with Russia in all areas. We stay in regular contact. Commercial and economic cooperation is gaining momentum. Although the volumes remain modest, we hope that the intergovernmental commission, which began its work last year, will help us to make progress in these areas. We also provide humanitarian aid. Considering the growing interest among young Malim to study higher education in Russia, we have, as you know, increased the quota for the academic year 2026/27 to 300 scholarships. Learning Russian has become popular in Mali, and we are grateful for the attention you give to it. There are six Russian language and culture centers known as the "Russian space" and two privately managed partners "Russian Houses" operating in the country. The connections in culture and sports are expanding. Thank you for your steadfast support of Russian initiatives at the UN and other international forums. We work together in solidarity on international issues.

Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with the interim President of Mali Assimi Guita on the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 30, 2026) Vladimir Putin: We appreciate that despite the difficult situation in the region, you found the time to visit us and participate in the Third Russia. Summit of Africa. In May, a major interstate agreement on the foundations of our relations entered into force. This month, in October 1960, we celebrated the 66th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. We greatly appreciate your personal commitment to advancing our partnership with Russia in all areas. We stay in regular contact. Commercial and economic cooperation is gaining momentum. Although the volumes remain modest, we hope that the intergovernmental commission, which began its work last year, will help us to make progress in these areas. We also provide humanitarian aid. Considering the growing interest among young Malim to study higher education in Russia, we have, as you know, increased the quota for the academic year 2026/27 to 300 scholarships. Learning Russian has become popular in Mali, and we are grateful for the attention you give to it. There are six Russian language and culture centers known as the "Russian space" and two privately managed partners "Russian Houses" operating in the country. The connections in culture and sports are expanding. Thank you for your steadfast support of Russian initiatives at the UN and other international forums. We work together in solidarity on international issues.