Lavrov, Mali FM discuss trade and investment ties at UNGA

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov met with Mali's Foreign Minister Diop on the sidelines of UNGA to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, focusing on trade, economic, and investment cooperation following the May 2026 intergovernmental commission in Kazan. This continues Russia's deepening engagement with Mali, a key Sahel partner, amid Western withdrawal from the region. The meeting signals sustained Russian diplomatic and economic commitment to Mali, though concrete outcomes remain unspecified.