Putin and CAR leader hold talks in Moscow (VIDEO)

The presidents are reviewing security support, humanitarian cooperation, and plans to expand partnerships in energy and agriculture

Central African Republic (CAR) President Faustin-Archange Touadera has met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss bilateral cooperation, including security, economic ties, and humanitarian issues.

During the talks on Thursday, Touadera thanked Russia for its support during what he described as a “difficult” and “decisive” period for the country.

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He noted that Russian assistance had helped ensure security during the December elections, allowing citizens to vote and choose their president. The CAR leader also expressed gratitude for grain supplies that had helped stabilize flour availability in the country. 

Touadera said the sides would discuss further cooperation in energy, hydrocarbons and agriculture, noting that the country currently faces significant challenges in its energy sector and financial system.

Putin highlighted prospects for humanitarian cooperation, thanking the CAR leadership for supporting Russian language and education initiatives. He also noted that Russia has decided to increase the quota for students from the African state.

Touadera arrived in Moscow on a working visit on Wednesday. He has visited Russia several times in the past, and has met regularly with Putin. Their most recent in-person meeting was in January 2025, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

The leaders maintain ongoing communication, including a telephone call in late January during which they reaffirmed their “mutual commitment to the further development of friendly bilateral relations.”

The visit marks Touadera’s first trip to Russia since his re-election in December. He secured a third term after winning 77.90% of the vote in the first round. This month also marks a decade since he first took office, having been sworn in on March 30, 2016.

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In February, CAR’s ambassador to Russia, Leon Dodonou-Pounagaza, told RIA Novosti that the country’s president plans to meet Vladimir Putin to discuss several issues, including the possible construction of a small nuclear power plant. He also said Bangui is interested in exporting coffee, peanuts, cocoa, and fruit to Russia.

Diplomatic relations between Russia and CAR were established in 1992, while the Soviet Union first established ties with the African nation in 1960. Since then, cooperation has expanded to include political and military engagement.