The officials of the Central African Republic (CAR) and Russia have discussed new opportunities for trade, investment and industrial cooperation.
During a meeting in Bangui on October 6, CAR Trade Minister Maxime Balalou and a visiting Russian delegation examined prospects for investment in priority sectors and closer links between businesses in the two countries, according to Ndjoni Sango.
The discussions focused on how bilateral partnerships could help diversify the CAR’s economy, support industrial development and increase trade flows.
Officials also stressed the need for continued dialogue between the two countries to identify shared interests and create conditions that encourage investment.
The meeting aligns with Russia’s stated interest in participating in large-scale projects in the CAR, including mineral-resource development and the supply of industrial equipment and agricultural machinery.
The latest talks come as Bangui seeks to broaden its economic base and attract international partners. CAR officials have previously described Russia as a partner with potential to support development through mutually beneficial projects rather than one-sided assistance.
During talks in January 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin and CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra identified agriculture, mining, energy and geological exploration as priorities, while Moscow encouraged Russian investment in agricultural and livestock projects.
A month later, the chair of Russia’s Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, Grigory Karasin, and CAR’s Ambassador Leon Dodonou-Pounagaza discussed measures to improve their contractual and legal framework, a step viewed as important for reducing barriers to Russian business operations and investment.
