Russia and Mali signed a series of trade and nuclear cooperation agreements on Tuesday during a state visit by Mali’s interim military leader, Assimi Goita, to Moscow. The agreements mark a significant deepening of bilateral relations, as Mali increasingly pivots toward Moscow amid deteriorating ties with Western nations.

The deal includes expanded trade across key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development, and features a landmark commitment to explore civilian nuclear energy in Mali a first for the West African nation.

Under the agreement, Russia’s state-owned nuclear agency Rosatom will conduct feasibility studies for the construction of Mali’s first nuclear power plant. The proposed facility would focus on low-emission energy solutions aimed at addressing Mali’s chronic power shortages and dependence on fossil fuels.

“This is a historic step forward in our cooperation with Russia,” Goita said in a statement following the talks. “It reflects Mali’s determination to diversify its energy sources and strategic partnerships.”

For Russia, the deal further cements its growing influence in Africa, particularly in regions where Western presence has receded. The development follows the withdrawal of French troops from Mali and ongoing international criticism of the military government’s political trajectory.

President Vladimir Putin praised the agreements, saying they would “strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote sustainable development in Mali.”