Russia is using its increasingly close relationship with Mozambique to push for a naval base and gas extraction deals in the country . Russia used a bilateral agreement between the two countries earlier this year to waive 95 % of the debt it is owed by Mozambique . In return , Russia 's state - owned energy firm BP is seeking to add to its three existing liquified natural gas exploration blocks in the country , with Mozambique 's president , Filipe Nyusi , encouraging Gazprombank to expand its investment in the sector . Russia is also providing military equipment and training .
Russia is using its increasingly close relationship with Mozambique to push for a naval base and energy extraction deals in the country. Russia used a business forum between the two countries earlier this year to waive 95% of the debt it is owed by Mozambique. In return, Russia's state-owned energy firm Rosneft is seeking to add to its three licensed liquified natural gas exploration blocks in the country, with Mozambique's president, Filipe Nyusi, encouraging Gazprombank to expand its investment in the sector. Russia is also providing military equipment and personnel.