Russia, Mozambique deepen defense and energy ties, aiming to diversify foreign investment

Russia and Mozambique reaffirmed their longstanding defense partnership during a diplomatic visit to Moscow by Mozambican Foreign Minister Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas.

The talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted both countries’ commitment to strengthening military cooperation and expanding economic ties,particularly in the energy sector. Lavrov pledged continued Russian support for enhancing Mozambique’s defense and counterterrorism capabilities,citing ongoing threats in the country’s northern Cabo Delgado province. “We have confirmed our readiness to consider all requests from our Mozambican friends on issues related to the need to strengthen their defense capability and potential in the anti-terrorist sphere,” Lavrov said.

Lucas,while expressing concern over the war in Ukraine and its ripple effects on African food security,emphasized her hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. She also invited Russian companies to invest in Mozambique’s gas sector,aiming to diversify foreign involvement beyond existing Western and Asian stakeholders. Russian firms may soon join major players like TotalEnergies,ExxonMobil,and Eni in tapping Mozambique’s gas-rich Rovuma Basin. Lucas’s invitation signals Maputo’s intent to broaden partnerships amid shifting global energy dynamics. Marking 50 years of bilateral relations,Lavrov accepted an invitation to visit Mozambique soon,underscoring Moscow’s growing footprint in Africa. The deepening ties come as Western influence in the region faces increasing competition from Russia’s strategic outreach in both defense and energy.