Central African Republic (CAR) President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has formally extended an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit Bangui, signalling a strengthening of political and security ties between the two nations following Touadéra’s re-election. The announcement was made shortly after the CAR leader secured a third term in office in the December 28, 2025 presidential election, where he won a clear majority of the votes, according to provisional results. Touadéra described Putin as a key partner and “attentive” leader, reflecting on years of cooperation that have seen Moscow play a central role in supporting CAR’s government through security assistance, including the deployment of Russian military personnel and private security forces to help counter armed groups. The partnership, which began in earnest in 2018 when the CAR became the first West and Central African state to invite Russian Wagner Group forces, has expanded to include economic and strategic dimensions such as mining and infrastructure development.
In the video interview announcing the invitation, Touadéra emphasised the importance of continuity in foreign relations and the benefits of Russia’s involvement in CAR’s peace and stabilisation efforts. Analysts say that while critics have raised concerns about human rights and sovereignty under such arrangements, the invitation reflects Bangui’s ongoing reliance on Russian support for security and governance amid persistent internal conflict.
The potential visit which is yet to be scheduled, would further consolidate ties between the CAR and Russia at a time when global geopolitical competition in Africa is increasing, with Western and non-Western powers vying for influence across the continent.
