Russia has approved the construction of a petroleum product pipeline in the Republic of Congo through a joint venture, a project seen as a way to strengthen its ties to Africa.

It will run from Pointe-Noire in the south to Brazzaville near the capital and is expected to operate for at least 25 years.

The joint venture will be led by Russian pipeline builder ZNGS Prometey, which will hold a 90% stake, with the National Petroleum Company of Congo holding the remaining 10%, according to a statement from the Russian government.

Although a specific construction timeline has not yet been announced, the agreement will be effective 30 days after both parties meet regulatory requirements.

The project is expected to be finalized within the next three months with the signing of a build-own-operate-transfer concession deal. As part of the deal, the Republic of Congo is anticipated to offer tax breaks.

Originally announced in 2017, the pipeline project was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.