Russia has signed a wide-ranging cooperation agreement with Sudan to modernise the country’s transport system, including railways, ports, airports and civil aviation.
- Russia has entered a comprehensive agreement with Sudan to enhance the country’s transport infrastructure and civil aviation.
- The deal includes expansions in trade, financial collaboration, and training programmes for Sudan’s central bank.
- Sudan aims to address its ongoing economic and infrastructure challenges exacerbated by internal conflicts.
- This partnership marks Russia’s intensified focus on expanding its influence and operations across the African continent.
The deal was announced by Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources, according to state news agency Sputnik.
Expanding Trade and Financial Cooperation
Alongside infrastructure commitments, the two sides agreed on training programmes for Sudan’s central bank and discussed ways to expand trade beyond agriculture.
Future cooperation will include exchanges in metals, fertilisers, machinery and medicines, with both governments stressing the need to diversify economic ties and build resilience in Sudan’s economy.
Sudan’s Ongoing Crisis
The agreements come at a critical time for Sudan, a country situated in Northeast Africa and currently grappling with the impact of protracted conflict between rival military factions. The fighting has devastated infrastructure, displaced millions of people and pushed the economy into crisis.
However, oficials are confident that Russian support could help rebuild essential sectors and restore trade routes disrupted by fighting. The government has also pointed to the deal as a step towards reviving civil aviation and re-establishing Sudan as a regional transport hub.
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Moscow’s Broader Strategy in Africa
The deal also reflects Moscow’s wider ambitions on the continent as it continues to increase its presence in Africa through energy projects, mining concessions, arms cooperation and financial partnerships, often positioning itself as an alternative to Western powers.
By expanding its footprint in Sudan, Russia seeks both economic opportunities and strategic access in the Horn of Africa, a region of growing geopolitical importance.
Global Context and UNGA Diplomacy
The announcement coincides with the ongoing United Nations General Assembly in New York, where African leaders have renewed calls for more equitable global partnerships and reforms to international institutions.
Against that backdrop, Russia’s engagement with Sudan underscores how global powers are competing for influence in Africa through bilateral deals and infrastructure commitments.
Also read: Russia marks formal diplomatic entry into Africa’s youngest country
Reactions to the Agreement
Sudanese representatives welcomed the cooperation with Russia, stressing that the partnership could strengthen national development efforts and ease recovery from the current crisis. Russian officials described the agreement as part of a broader push to deepen Africa–Russia relations at a time of shifting international alignments.
