By moving closer to Moscow, Niger has the opportunity to have "an honest friend by its side, providing assistance," particularly in its fight against terrorism, a Malian expert Abdoul Diallo told Sputnik Africa.
"I draw a positive assessment from the meeting between General Tiani and the Russian delegation that went to Niamey," he explained, adding that "there has been a misreading of Russia by its competitors - the US, Europe, and other countries who are looking to protect selfish interests."
On Africa Day, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced the opening of Russian embassies in several African countries, including Niger. This follows the expansion of Russia's presence in Africa and the strengthening of relations with the continent, especially in the West African country, particularly in military and humanitarian spheres.