Russia will begin geological exploration of lithium, oil and gas deposits in Mali next month, a senior official announced in Bamako. According to Malian Minister of Economy and Finance Alousseini Sanou, a first team of Russian experts will arrive soon to begin work, with a timetable for the steps to be taken already established. The development coincides with a visit by Sanou and Energy Minister Bintou Camara to Moscow to explore investment opportunities. This cooperation with Russia could provide Mali with the resources needed to finance other economic sectors. Source: Africa News Agency