Burkina Faso's interim president, Capt Ibrahim Traore, has said he was satisfied with his country's military ties with Russia, which he described as "a strategic partner".
"I am satisfied with our military co-operation with Russia. Besides, Burkina Faso's cooperation with Russia dates back to a long time, but we are developing it and move it further," he said on Thursday in an interview with state-run channel RTB TV.
He denied that Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group were supporting Burkinabe forces in their fight against Islamist armed groups.
He said the exit of French forces from the country "does not mean that France is no longer an ally because the French embassy is still here".
But he cited "new forms of co-operation" describing Russia as an an example of "a strategic ally". He said Turkiye was a major partner.
He also mentioned North Korea, saying it had supported Burkina Faso in the past with heavy military equipment that was still in use - and would want more supplies from there.
Capt Traore said Burkina Faso has many international partners, but "will only collaborate with those who want to help us, like sell us equipment and support us".
Latest Stories
-
GPL 2023/24: Kotoko draw with Medeama; Samartex go 7 points clear of Nations FC
12 mins -
Mahama cuts sod for construction of new multipurpose Jakpa palace in Damongo
33 mins -
NSS management assists Papao fire victims
1 hour -
EXPLAINER: Will dumsor end soon?
2 hours -
IMANI Africa takes on EC, accuses it of lying and publishing half truths
2 hours -
Manasseh Azure calls for investigation and prosecution of those responsible for GRA/SML contract
3 hours -
Kwesi Atuahene: Ghana’s health capital depends on HealthTech – Africa Center for Digital Transformation
3 hours -
13 signs your wife is planning on leaving you and you have no idea
3 hours -
IMANI Africa: Ghana’s EC’s dangerous and pathological conduct
3 hours -
If I speak there will be fire – Salah on Klopp row
4 hours -
Grieving after divorce is normal, but this particular kind of grief isn’t
4 hours -
10 beautifully unexpected ways husbands proposed to their wives
4 hours -
Reality zone with Vicky Wireko: Painting Ghana purple: Be aware, May is month of mental health awareness
4 hours -
Prof Opoku-Agyemang’s integrity is admirable – Inusah Fuseini
5 hours -
Your reign has been a beacon of wisdom – Alan Kyerematen tells Asantehene
5 hours