Russia offers Mozambique support to combat terrorism and strengthen security.

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov affirmed his country's readiness to provide support to Mozambique in its efforts to combat terrorism during an official visit to the capital, Maputo, stressing Moscow's solidarity with the Mozambican government in facing the security threats the country is experiencing, especially in the Cabo Delgado province in the north.

Lavrov said that Russia continues to support President Nyusi's efforts to restore stability in northern Mozambique, eliminate what he described as the ”terrorist threat,” and strengthen state sovereignty over its entire territory. He explained that Moscow is ready to provide assistance at the request of the Mozambican government, within the framework of bilateral cooperation relations between the two countries.

Cabo Delgado conflict hotspot

For several years, the Cabo Delgado province has been facing an armed rebellion led by groups linked to the Islamic State organization. This rebellion has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. It has also disrupted major natural gas field development projects that attract billions of dollars in international investment.

Rwandan forces have also been deployed in the region since 2021, with the support of the European Union, to assist the Mozambican army in confronting armed groups and restoring security in the affected areas.

Cooperation beyond the security file

Lavrov pointed out that his discussions with Mozambican officials also addressed ways to enhance economic and trade cooperation, as well as support for development and economic reform plans, emphasizing Moscow's keenness to expand its partnership with African countries in various fields, not just in the security aspect.

Growing Russian interest in the African continent

The Russian Foreign Minister's visit to Mozambique is part of an African tour aimed at strengthening political, economic, and defense relations with a number of countries on the continent. Moscow is seeking to expand its presence in Africa through security and investment cooperation agreements, and to strengthen partnerships with African governments in the face of security and development challenges.

The Cabo Delgado region in northern Mozambique has been experiencing an armed insurgency since 2017, led by militant groups that have declared allegiance to ISIS.

The conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands and the displacement of hundreds of thousands, and has also disrupted massive natural gas projects, which are among the largest investments in Africa. Since 2021, Rwandan forces and forces from the Southern African Development Community have been supporting the Mozambican army in restoring security, which has contributed to the recovery of a number of areas, despite the continued sporadic attacks that threaten stability and development.