Burkina Faso-Russia: A nuclear agreement within reach of signature for a strategic partnership
Le président russe Vladimir Poutine et le président par intérim du Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traoré, à Saint-Pétersbourg. /Photo prise le 29 juillet 2023/REUTERS/Alexander Ryumin/TASS Host Photo Agency
Burkina Faso and the Russian Federation are preparing to take a significant step in their bilateral cooperation with the imminent signing of an intergovernmental agreement on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. According to Burkinabe authorities, the document has been harmonized and finalized by both parties, with the signing scheduled to take place on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which will be held from June 18 to 21, 2025.
This partnership is part of Burkina Faso’s strategy to diversify its energy sources in order to meet the rapidly growing national demand. Civil nuclear energy could provide a sustainable, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative to improve access to electricity, particularly in rural areas that remain underserved. For the Burkinabe government, it is seen as a key driver to support the country’s industrial and agricultural development.
Beyond the energy aspect, this agreement marks an important diplomatic milestone. It reflects the deepening of relations between Burkina Faso and Russia in the context of shifting global geopolitics.
The strengthening of ties with Moscow fits into Burkina Faso’s broader effort to assert its sovereignty and diversify its strategic partnerships, moving away from traditional spheres of influence. This cooperation also paves the way for collaboration in other sectors such as education, scientific research, and technology transfer.
Burkinabe authorities have emphasized that this agreement strictly concerns the peaceful use of nuclear energy, in full compliance with international conventions. It has no connection with weapons or sensitive activities but is instead aimed at developing infrastructure for energy production and improving access to healthcare, notably through the use of nuclear technology in medicine.
