Russia, Niger poised to expand trade, economic ties

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk Tuesday January 16 indicated that Moscow is keen to expand trade, economic and investment ties, and trade turnover with Niger, Sputnik reports.

Overchuk made the comment during a meeting with Niger’s Premier Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine. He is in the Russian capital as part of an international tour seeking to identify opportunities and diversify partners of the West African country.

The Russian top official explained that for that purpose further joint steps to develop partnership in such promising areas as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, geological exploration, are required.

Zeine arrived in Moscow late Monday January 15 accompanied by a high-key delegation composed of the ministers of Defense, Oil and Gas, Agriculture, Trade, Youth, and Sports.

Russia is the first leg of the tour. Zeine is also expected to travel to Turkey, Iran, and Serbia.

Ties between Russia and Niger have quickly developed under new Niger authorities, a junta that seized power on July 26, after removing West-backed elected leader Mohamed Bazoum.