President Samia Suluhu Hassan landed in Moscow for a meeting with Vladimir Putin, the first by a Tanzanian leader since 1969. The trip aims to sign agreements on trade, tourism, and minerals, opening the door to new air routes and investments. Amid Western sanctions, Tanzania is betting on diversifying its partners to strengthen its economy.
Minerals and connectivity: the pillars of a technical alliance 🌍
The signed agreements include cooperation in geological exploration and infrastructure development for the extraction of lithium and rare earths, key materials for batteries and technology. Additionally, an increase in commercial flights between Dar es Salaam and Moscow is planned, facilitating technical and tourist exchange. For Tanzania, this represents access to Russian machinery and expertise, reducing its dependence on Western suppliers in strategic sectors.
Putin, Samia, and the art of dodging sanctions with a cup of tea ☕
While half the world puts on a stern face with Russia, Tanzania arrives with the smile of someone looking for a new buyer for its precious stones. Putin, for his part, must be delighted: finally someone visits him without carrying a list of complaints under their arm. The best part of the agreement is that, if all goes well, soon we will be able to fly directly to Moscow to buy a matryoshka and ask about the lithium.