Mali Signs Military Equipment Acquisition Deal With Chinese Defense Contractor Amid Western-led Criticism

Mali’s government has signed a military equipment acquisition deal with Chinese defence contractor, Norinco Group.

This was disclosed on Monday, September 2, 2024, following the transitional President Assimi Goïta’s first visit to Beijing.

The visit, two days before the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), has overseen the new agreement between the Malian government and China’s Norinco.

At the visit, Goïta was accompanied by Colonel Sadio Camara, Minister of Defence and Veterans, his cabinet and some government members.

In a statement released by sources familiar with the Malian government, the agreement between China’s Norinco and the Malian government, which Colonel Camara signed, focuses on acquiring new military equipment.

This initiative aims to further strengthen Mali’s defence capabilities, where security challenges remain at the heart of concerns,” the statement reads.

Meanwhile, the deal was signed amidst Western criticism of Mali, as reflected through government statements and media coverage since the ousting of President Bah N’daw.

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