Africa-Press – Eswatini. In a ceremony filled with warmth and diplomatic optimism, the newly appointed Russian Ambassador to Eswatini officially presented his Letters of Credence to His Majesty King Mswati III, marking a new chapter in the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
The Ambassador, representing the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, pledged to continue deepening cooperation between Russia and the Kingdom of Eswatini — a relationship that has blossomed for over 25 years based on mutual respect, trust, and shared values.
“It is a great honour for me to present these credentials to His Majesty,” said the Ambassador. “Our task is to strengthen the political dialogue, expand trade and economic ties, and enhance cooperation in education, culture, energy, and security.”
A Growing Partnership
Over the years, relations between Moscow and Mbabane have grown significantly stronger. His Majesty’s participation in the Russia-Africa Summit in 2019, the visit by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in 2023, and Eswatini’s active role in the Russia-Africa Partnership Forums reflect the growing diplomatic bond.
Russia looks forward to welcoming Eswatini’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Pholile Shakantu, to the next Ministerial Conference in Egypt later this year, and His Majesty to the Third Russia-Africa Summit in 2026.
Empowering Education and Youth
One of the highlights of the Ambassador’s address was Russia’s commitment to education and human capital development. Currently, 20 Eswatini students study in Russia each year on full scholarships. Discussions are underway to increase this number, opening more doors for young Emaswati to study science, engineering, and other advanced fields abroad.
The Ambassador also confirmed plans to establish a Centre for Open Education and Russian Language Teaching in Eswatini, a milestone that will strengthen cultural exchange and academic collaboration between the two nations.
“This Centre will bring our peoples closer together and mark a new era in humanitarian cooperation,” he said.
Shared Vision for Global Fairness
Russia and Eswatini continue to align closely on international issues. Both nations share a vision for a fair and democratic global order, with the Ambassador applauding Eswatini’s historical contribution to the Ezulwini Consensus, which champions greater African representation in the United Nations Security Council.
Russia also commended Eswatini’s constructive stance on the Ukrainian conflict, emphasizing the importance of “African solutions to African problems” and lauding Eswatini’s contributions to peace and stability in the region.
Building the Future Together
The Ambassador praised His Majesty’s leadership in guiding Eswatini’s modernization while preserving its rich cultural heritage and traditions. He reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to partner in areas including mineral development, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“The foundation of our friendship is solid,” he affirmed. “With continued dialogue, legal cooperation, and stronger economic ties, our partnership will bring tangible benefits to our peoples.”
A Relationship Rooted in Friendship and Promise
As Eswatini and Russia approach the 26th anniversary of diplomatic relations, both nations look forward to a future of prosperity, partnership, and peace.
“These 25 years are only the beginning,” concluded the Ambassador. “The journey ahead will be one of progress and shared success for our countries and our peoples.”
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