In June 2024, Denis Sassou-Nguesso, President of the Republic of Congo 🇨🇬, made a landmark official visit to Russia. During this trip, he took part in several high-level negotiations with his counterpart Vladimir Putin, consolidating a decades-old diplomatic relationship.

In an exclusive interview with the African Initiative, Denis Sassou-Nguesso discusses the evolution of ties between the Congo and the USSR, their current expansion with Russia, the importance of Victory Day for the Congolese people, and Africa's growing place in a multipolar world.

👉 Watch the full interview here

A historic friendship strengthened

Denis Sassou-Nguesso recalls that his first visit to the Soviet Union dates back to the time of Leonid Brezhnev. Since the dissolution of the USSR, Congo has maintained and strengthened its relations with the Russian Federation, focusing on diplomatic, economic and cultural cooperation.

Congo in a multipolar world

The President insists on the need for Africa to play an active role in a changing world. In his view, a multipolar world offers African nations an opportunity to strengthen their sovereignty and establish balanced strategic partnerships, particularly with countries like Russia.

The importance of Victory Day

Denis Sassou-Nguesso also stresses the symbolic importance of Victory Day for the Congolese people, as a commemoration of the fight against fascism, a universal struggle for freedom and justice.

💬 Standout quote

"The relationship between Congo and Russia is based on mutual respect, historical solidarity and a shared vision of a just, multipolar world." - Denis Sassou-Nguesso

📢 Why is this interview essential?

Thanks to this exclusive interview, we better understand:

• The historical depth of Congo-Russian relations
• The strategic importance of Africa in the new world order
• The role of historical memory in strengthening international alliances