Maputo: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Mozambique as part of his ongoing tour of African countries, marking his arrival early Thursday in the capital city of Maputo. The visit to Mozambique is the latest stop on a diplomatic mission that Lavrov began earlier this week with the aim of strengthening Russia's ties with African nations.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lavrov's African tour commenced with a visit to Ethiopia, where he engaged in discussions with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and was later received by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. His engagements in Ethiopia also included consultations with Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the chair of the African Union Commission, highlighting Russia's diplomatic efforts in the region.

Following his visit to Ethiopia, Lavrov traveled to Niger on Wednesday. In Niger, he participated in the second ministerial consultations between Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States, which comprises Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These discussions underscored Russia's interest in fostering collaboration with the Sahel States amidst regional challenges.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has yet to disclose additional details regarding Lavrov's itinerary or the duration of his stay in Mozambique. Nonetheless, his visit signifies Russia's ongoing commitment to expanding its diplomatic and strategic presence across the African continent.