Russia Day: Moscow and Cotonou reaffirm their willingness to strengthen cooperation

The celebration of Russia Day took place on June 11, 2026 at the Golden Tulip hotel in Cotonou, bringing together diplomats, Beninese officials, and members of the Russian community. Russian Ambassador Igor Evdokimov emphasized the significance of June 12, the date of Russia's Declaration of Sovereignty, and highlighted recent high-level exchanges, including talks in Cairo between Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin and Beninese Secretary General Franck Armel Afoukou. He also mentioned Vladimir Putin's congratulations to Romuald Wadagni on his election as President of Benin. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political, economic, and humanitarian cooperation.