Mozambique: Chapo invites Russian companies to invest in strategic sectors

The Mozambican President on Thursday invited Russian companies to invest in strategic sectors of Mozambique, advocating cooperation aimed at diversifying the economy and creating sustainable jobs.

“We invite Russian companies and investors to explore opportunities in Mozambique, on a mutually beneficial basis, as Russia has always accustomed us to,” Daniel Chapo said at the plenary session of the Russia-Africa Summit.

According to the Head of State, the country intends to build a more diversified economic structure capable of generating jobs, particularly for women and young people, who make up the majority of Mozambique’s population.

To achieve this objective, Daniel Chapo pointed to opportunities for cooperation with the Russian Federation in areas such as mechanised agriculture, industry, infrastructure, transport and logistics.

The President also highlighted the energy, tourism, digital transformation and blue economy sectors as priority areas for investment, while advocating stronger cooperation in education, technical and vocational training, health and scientific research.

“We intend not only to attract investment, but also to strengthen national capacity so that investment produces effects that remain long after each project has been completed,” he said.

Addressing African leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Mozambican Head of State also advocated strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, transnational organised crime, money laundering and cyber threats.

“We believe that Russia plays an important role in this fight, as it has accustomed us to during the national liberation struggle and throughout these more than 50 years of our independence,” he said.

For Daniel Chapo, the action plan emerging from the summit should be based on clear priorities, defined responsibilities and effective monitoring mechanisms, in order to ensure greater consistency in cooperation between Russia and African countries.

In his address, the Mozambican President also called for greater attention to climate justice and climate financing, arguing that the transition to a green economy should not compromise the development of African countries.

“In terms of peace and security, we believe it is important to reiterate the need for Africa to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, so that we can better discuss global security issues and respect for the United Nations Charter,” he added.

The Russia-Africa Summit, which concluded on Thursday, brought together leaders from 28 African countries in Moscow to discuss deepening political, economic and security cooperation between the parties.