A Russian delegation headed by a deputy foreign minister visited Bamako recently. According to Diop, this visit demonstrates Mali’s desire to accelerate the implementation of a plan “to increase military and defense capabilities.”
"This visit is also a continuation of the dialogue on strengthening the strategic military partnership between our two countries. It is based on strengthening the combat capabilities of the Malian defense and security forces to achieve greater autonomy, as well as a military equipment procurement program," Diop said.