Russia has expressed its willingness to support Mozambique in combating terrorism in Cabo Delgado through the sharing of intelligence, experience, and technology. The pledge was made by the Russian ambassador to Maputo, Vladimir Taravov, who said he already has concrete data on the groups operating in the province.
“We have good experience. We already have a database containing the names of terrorists, and we can share this information with our Mozambican partners,” the diplomat stated in Pemba, the provincial capital of Cabo Delgado, according to Lusa.
Since 2017, the province has been the stage of an armed insurgency carried out by groups associated with Islamic extremism. The conflict has displaced more than one million people and, in 2024 alone, caused at least 349 deaths, according to official data.
According to the ambassador, beyond data sharing, Russia is also willing to collaborate in providing technology and equipment tailored to the needs identified by Mozambican authorities. “First of all, we need to agree on what kind of help Mozambique requires now. What technology, what equipment,” he said.
The rapprochement between the two countries comes as Moscow seeks to strengthen partnerships in Africa, particularly in the areas of security and the economy. In this context, Vladimir Taravov announced that preparations are underway for a state visit by Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, to Russia at the invitation of his counterpart, Vladimir Putin. “We want to strengthen our relationship and expand cooperation, not only politically but also economically,” the diplomat emphasized, further highlighting the interest of several Russian companies in investing in Mozambique. He also encouraged Mozambican entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the Russian market.
At the official level, Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, stated in June that his country is ready to bolster Mozambique’s defense capacity and support its counterterrorism efforts. His visit to Maputo is expected soon, following an invitation from Mozambique’s Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister, Maria Santos Lucas.
At the time, Mozambique’s top diplomat advocated for stronger economic and trade relations, particularly focusing on attracting Russian investment in the gas and oil sectors.
Source: Diário Económico
