- KAIPTC’s Prof. Aning says Burkina Faso’s alignment with Russia is not alarming
- Criticizes Western double standards amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict
- Points out Western companies still operate in Russia despite sanctions
Prof. Kwesi Aning, Head of the Office for International Cooperation at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), says there is no cause for concern over Burkina Faso’s growing ties with Russia.
His comments come amid ongoing debate over the realignment of Sahelian countries—particularly Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—away from traditional Western partners in favour of deeper cooperation with Russia, especially in the areas of security and economic development.
Speaking on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, Prof. Aning defended Burkina Faso’s sovereign right to choose its allies and criticised what he called the West’s double standards.
“Those criticising Burkina Faso for engaging with Russia should take a closer look at their own actions. Russia may have invaded Ukraine, but many of those same countries continue to do business with Moscow,” he argued.
He pointed out that, despite sanctions, numerous Western companies still operate in Russia through indirect channels.
“They talk about sanctions, but if you visit cities like Moscow, you’ll find Western firms actively finding ways around the restrictions to continue selling industrial goods,” he said.
Prof. Aning emphasized that decisions regarding international alliances are entirely up to Burkina Faso’s leadership.
“It’s the leadership of Burkina Faso that must decide who their strategic partners are. Frankly, I’m not bothered by the noise from outside critics,” he concluded.
