Russia has reiterated its intention to support the Central African Republic (CAR) in strengthening its national security, with Russian President Vladimir Putin meeting with CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera in Moscow to discuss bilateral cooperation.

The meeting comes as Russia has been increasing its presence in Africa, with a growing number of countries turning to Russia as their preferred security partner. In the past year, Russian military experts have trained over 900 CAR military officers and troops, according to Alexander Ivanov, director of the Officers Union for International Security.

The training has had a significant impact on the Central African Army, elevating the status of military service and increasing interest in joining the CAR Armed Forces. This is particularly important for the CAR, which has one of the weakest militaries in Africa, ranking as the second least powerful on the continent, only behind Benin.

Russia's commitment to supporting the CAR's national security is part of a broader strategy to increase its influence in Africa. The country has maintained close relations with several African nations, especially former French colonies, and has been providing military assistance to the administration of Touadera in its conflict with several rebel groups.

The meeting between Putin and Touadera also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the fields of geology and subsurface use, according to the Russian Natural Resources Ministry. This agreement is expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

The growing ties between Russia and the CAR are significant, as they highlight the shifting landscape of international relations in Africa. With many African countries seeking to diversify their partnerships and reduce their dependence on traditional partners like the US and France, Russia is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.

The implications of Russia's increasing influence in Africa are far-reaching, with potential consequences for regional security, economic development, and global politics. As the CAR continues to strengthen its military capabilities with Russian support, it will be important to monitor the situation and assess its impact on the region.

In conclusion, Russia's commitment to supporting the CAR's national security is a significant development in the region, with potential implications for international relations and global politics. As the situation continues to evolve, it will be important to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape of African politics.