Vyacheslav Volodin and Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe discussed issues of development of inter-parliamentary relations between Russia and Burundi

The Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin Volodin
Vyacheslav Victorovich The Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation of the eighth convocation. Elected in single mandate constituency № 163 (Saratov constituency - Saratov Oblast) held a meeting with the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Burundi Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe. Issues of development of inter-parliamentary relations between the two countries were discussed at the meeting.

According to Vyacheslav Volodin, Burundi is a longtime friend of Russia. “We stand together for a multipolar world, a fair, just world order. We both note the importance of the rule of law in international affairs, ensuring regional stability and security,” emphasized the Chairman of the State Duma. “We, just like you, respect traditional values, preserve moral guidelines and pass them on to future generations,” he added.

Vyacheslav Volodin also expressed hope that the visit of the delegation from Burundi headed by Gélase Ndabirabe “will give an additional impetus to the bilateral inter-parliamentary cooperation.” “We should involve more relevant committees in our parliaments to develop interaction through exchange of views, discussion of the issues on the agenda. This will help us reach a new great dynamic and develop our relations,” he said.

The dialogue at the highest level mostly contributes to the development of cooperation between Russia and Burundi, as noted the Chairman of the State Duma. He recalled that in declaration of the Second Russia-Africa Summit held in 2023, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin and leaders of African states set a task to develop inter-parliamentary dialogue. “In this regard, it is very important to implement more effectively the agreements reached at the level of heads of our states,” said Vyacheslav Volodin.

According to the Chairman of the State Duma, one of the main priorities of interaction within the parliamentary dimension is development of economic ties. “In 2024, the trade turnover reached more than 70%. We should create legal basis, new opportunities for development of business cooperation between representatives of our states,” he added. The good contribution to achieve good economic results can be also made by increasing inter-regional cooperation between Russia and Burundi, as said Vyacheslav Volodin.

Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe expressed gratitude to Vyacheslav Volodin for the opportunity to meet and discuss all the issues of interest. “For us, it is a really good opportunity to strengthen our friendship, brotherhood between our nations and, in particular, our parliaments. We have all the necessary conditions for that,” he stressed. “I know that we can rely on you, as you always provide support to us in the most difficult, darkest times. It is not the beginning of relations, as they have already been established, we talk about strengthening them. We see you as our elder brother whose example we follow,” he added.

“I would like to use this opportunity and congratulate the President of the Russian Federation on how well you are dealing with the current situation. We monitor the situation and we want you to win and wish you nothing but victory,” added the Speaker of the National Assembly of Burundi.

During the meeting, the Speakers also signed an Agreement on Cooperation between the State Duma and the National Assembly of Burundi. Vyacheslav Volodin noted the current new level and systematic nature of inter-parliamentary relations between the two states. Gélase Daniel Ndabirabe stressed that the document covers all areas of cooperation, including economic and humanitarian fields.