State Duma Pushes for Russia’s Investment in Burundi -By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh

State Duma Chairman, Vyacheslav Volodin, has held a working meeting with Burundi National Assembly Speaker, Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe, focusing on question relating to the development of inter-parliamentary relations between Burundi and Russia. Developing parliamentary relations have become one of the significant policy aspects for Russia with African countries, especialling in the context of the emerging new global architecture.

Burundi has had an excellent relations with Russia. “We stand together for a multipolar world, a fair, just world order. We both note the importance of the rule of law in international affairs, ensuring regional stability and security,” emphasized Volodin, and further expressed hope that the visit of the delegation from Burundi headed by Gélase Ndabirabe “will give an additional impetus to the bilateral inter-parliamentary cooperation.”

Volodin and Ndabirabe agreed during the discussionthe essence of creating parliamentary committees for the purposes of raising interactions, while underlining the fact that through frequent exchange of views, discussion of the issues on the bilateral agenda would lift up relations to a new great dynamic levels.

The dialogue, at the highest level, mostly contributes to the development of cooperation between Russia and Burundi, noted the Chairman of the State Duma.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and leaders of African states set a task to develop inter-parliamentary dialogue during the the first and second Russia-Africa summits. “In this regard, it is very important to implement more effectively the agreements reached at the level of heads of our states,” reminded Volodin.

According to the Chairman of the State Duma, one of the main priorities of interaction within the parliamentary dimension is development of economic ties. “In 2024, the trade turnover reached more than 70%. At the meeting, it was agreed to create legal basis, new opportunities for development of business cooperation between representatives of Burundi and Russia. The good contribution to achieve good economic results can be made by increasing inter-regional cooperation between Burundi and Russia.

Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe expressed gratitude to Vyacheslav Volodin for the opportunity to meet and discuss all the issues of interest. “For us, it is a really good opportunity to strengthen our friendship, brotherhood between our nations and, in particular, our parliaments. We have all the necessary conditions for that,” he stressed, adding Russia always provides support in the most difficult, darkest times.

Speaker of the National Assembly of Burundi and Chairman of the State Duma, signed an Agreement on Cooperation, and both noted the current new level and systematic nature of inter-parliamentary relations between the two states. Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe stressed that the document covers potential areas of cooperation, including economic and humanitarian fields.