Russia-Chad ties strengthen during Russia day celebrations

Moscow has hailed the steady progress in its bilateral relationship with Chad during a special celebration marking Russia Day. The event, held in N’Djaména, highlighted the deepening cooperation between the two nations across education, security, and diplomatic spheres.

Diplomatic progress and high-level engagements

The Russian Ambassador to Chad, Vladimir Sokolenko, emphasized the positive trajectory of Russo-Chadian relations during his address. He noted that both countries are building a partnership rooted in equality and mutual benefit, aligning with Chad’s national development goals and sovereignty efforts.

The Kremlin has extended an official invitation to President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to attend the upcoming Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow this October. This follows President Déby’s state visit to Russia in early 2024 and underscores the growing strategic engagement between the two governments.

In a historic diplomatic milestone, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited N’Djaména in June 2024—the first such visit in 60 years of bilateral relations. The trip paved the way for subsequent high-level talks, including a September 2025 meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, where Lavrov and Chad’s Foreign Minister Dr. Abdoulaye Sabre Fadoul discussed key aspects of future cooperation.

Security and regional stability priorities

Chad’s leadership in regional peacekeeping and conflict resolution has earned recognition from Moscow. The Russian government has supported N’Djaména’s initiatives within the African Union, particularly its push for financial sovereignty—including proposals to replace the CFA franc with a new regional currency.

Security cooperation remains a cornerstone of the partnership. In May 2025, six Chadian police officers began specialized training in Russia as part of a UN peacekeeping program. Both nations are advocating for enhanced security mechanisms in Central Africa and the Sahel, prioritizing regional stability.

Education as a pillar of cooperation

The Russian government continues to expand educational exchanges, offering 360 scholarships annually to Chadian students—the highest quota among African partners. A new vocational training initiative, *Professionalisation*, is being developed to equip young professionals with industry-relevant skills. Discussions are underway to streamline the selection process and increase opportunities for Chadian youth.

The Russian Ministry of Interior has also hosted Chadian trainees in peacekeeping operations, further strengthening bilateral ties in international security frameworks.

Shared global vision and future prospects

Russia and Chad are aligned on key international issues, including UN Security Council reform. Both countries support UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for a fairer global system that gives Africa greater representation and resources. Their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to reshaping global governance in favor of equitable policies.

The Russia Day event in N’Djaména was attended by senior Chadian officials, including the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and African Integration, alongside diplomats and local leaders. The celebration underscored the enduring strength of Russo-Chadian ties and the potential for even closer cooperation in the years ahead.