Newsbreak: Putin, Congo President meet in Russia, vow to fight neocolonialism

……as Russia honors his Congolese counterpart with state award

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, on Thursday met with his Congolese counterpart, Denis Sassou Nguesso.

Both pledged to fight against neocolonialism.

Africa is opening doors to Russia after decades or even more than a century exploitation of the continent by the West, leaving misery and anger.

Denis Sassou Nguesso who termed his meeting with Putin in Moscow as “friendly and solidarityy,” vowed to strengthen ties between Russia and Republic of Congo, one of Africa-s richest countries by long exploited and impoverished by Belgium.

In Nigeria, Popoola Ajayi of Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements,(AYDM) which leads some 130 groups said his people are “looking up to Russia for Liberation from the clutches of terror represented by the West.”

In Moscow, the President of Congo in his address praised Russian President and its people for their bravery in resisting illegal sanctions.

During their meeting, Putin mentioned that trade and economic relations between Russia and Congo are significantly improving in a positive direction. 

Putin also emphasized that his Country prioritizes his relationship with African countries, praising Nguesso’s personal contribution to the enhancement of bilateral ties.

“Russia has worked to bolster ties with African countries in recent years” Putin said.

“You have participated in two Russia-Africa summits. You are making the necessary efforts to develop our cooperation in all areas. I am referring to the political level, where (relations) have been developing noticeably recently, and trade and economic ties,” he added.

Putin saluted Nguesso for his coordination in international affairs.

He also presented Nguesso with the Order of Honour, a state award of the Russian Federation.