What You Need to Know
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Russian government have announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership aimed at enhancing security and development. This agreement was made during the second ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum held in Cairo, where both parties emphasized the need for practical mechanisms to address escalating security risks..
Africa. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Russian government have announced an unprecedented strategic partnership focusing on security and development.
This announcement came at the conclusion of the second ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, held in Cairo on December 19 and 20, 2025, where ECOWAS Commission President Umaro Sissoco Embaló met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
During the meeting, both parties emphasized the need to transform historical relations into practical mechanisms capable of addressing the escalating security challenges in the Sahel region, particularly the rising activities of armed groups and cross-border terrorist threats.
Moscow confirmed its readiness to support the regional integration agenda by enhancing the capabilities of intelligence agencies, coordinating defense forces, and securing electoral processes, which often serve as flashpoints for political tension.
Lavrov noted that Russia is already providing expertise in mine clearance and reducing the threat of improvised explosive devices, along with advanced training programs targeting military forces and security agencies on the continent.
The Russian side linked the causes of current conflicts to the effects of the colonial era, asserting that Africa is experiencing a “second awakening.”
Moscow expressed its willingness to work with its African partners to confront what it describes as “new forms of dominance,” including proposing the establishment of legal tools to assess and compensate for the damages caused by colonialism.
While security is the primary entry point for cooperation, both sides stressed that stability is inseparable from economic development.
Trade volume between Russia and the African continent increased by 13%, reaching $28 billion in 2024, while the idea of establishing a business council to enhance economic ties was proposed.
This economic dimension is viewed as a necessary complement to military efforts, as both parties believe that prosperity and trade integration form the most effective defense against extremism and political instability in the long term.
The collaboration between Russia and ECOWAS marks a significant shift in international relations, particularly in the context of Africa’s security landscape. Historically, West Africa has faced numerous challenges, including terrorism and political instability, often exacerbated by colonial legacies. This partnership aims to address these issues through enhanced cooperation and support for regional integration efforts.
