Mines Minister Julius Mattai Says Russia Does Not Interfere in African Politics
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, has said Russia does not interfere in the domestic political affairs of African countries, describing its engagement with the continent as one based on mutual respect and sovereignty.
Mattai made the remarks in an interview with Russian state-owned news agency Sputnik during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
“What’s unique about the Russian model is the non-interference in political affairs,” Mattai said.
He added that Russia’s relationship with African countries was built on respect for national sovereignty, as well as the cultures and values of their people.
The minister also highlighted Russia’s historical relationship with Africa, stressing that it had never been a colonial power on the continent. The issue has featured prominently in recent discussions about Russia’s growing engagement with African countries.
On the mining sector, Mattai said Russia was interested in agreements that prioritise local communities and address potential environmental risks.
He added that Sierra Leone was seeking a mutually beneficial partnership with the Russian Federation to support the country’s development.
Although Russia does not currently operate a mining site in Sierra Leone, discussions are under way to grant Russian aluminium company RUSAL a licence to mine bauxite in the country.
Last year, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Yongawo, visited a potential mining site being considered for the Russian company.
Russia has previously shown interest in Sierra Leone’s natural resources. Russian oil company LUKOIL conducted several offshore exploration activities in the country. Former President Ernest Bai Koroma and Russia’s then Deputy Foreign Minister, Gennady Gatilov, were also present during one of the engagements.
Moscow has continued efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with Freetown. In October last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin appointed Andrey Stolyarov as Russia’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone.