Congo set to reinforce its energy cooperation with Russia
In recent years, Russia has been consolidating its energy-related arrangements with a number of African nations. In light of the Russian Energy Week which took place in Moscow from September 26-28, conversations on such deals have gained traction. As a result, several African countries including Congo have made their intentions public when it comes to what they need from a Russian partnership.
Minister of Hydrocarbons of the Republic of the Congo Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, as reported by Sputnik, recently disclosed his country’s intention to welcome more Russian energy deals.
The minister urged Russian businesses to embark on projects in the areas of oil, gas, minerals, and power and to invest in Congo's energy sector.
He mentioned that this sort of arrangement would be off the heels of the partnership Russia and Congo have enjoyed.
Russia, we have very long-term cooperation… Now we want to really increase, to strengthen, and reinforce economic cooperation. And the first area we want to do is the energy sector," Itoua told Sputnik on the sidelines of the Russian Energy Week international forum.
Russian energy companies such as oil company Lukoil and state nuclear corporation Rosatom, already have ongoing projects within the Central African country.
"So that's the companies we know. But maybe there are more companies ... My goal is to see Russian companies to come in Congo to see what they have many opportunities for energy, for electricity, for oil, for gas, for mineral [projects]," the minister added.
Regarding the country's current engagement with Rosatom, the Congolese minister stated that the negotiations are progressing fine and that the parties are striving to complete previously negotiated agreements on nuclear and renewable energy.
"Now I think we're working to finalize the last agreement. We have two main subjects. The first one is renewable energy based on the technology of floating systems. The second one is nuclear energy ... And I think it's going very well in terms of discussion between Congo and Rosatom," the minister stated.
This is in light of the Memorandum of cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy and hydropower sectors, Congo signed with Rosatom in July, 2024.
Cover photo: Congo set to reinforce its energy cooperation with Russia
