Russia and Dominican Republic Mark 81 Years of Diplomatic Ties

The two countries celebrate a long history of friendship and cooperation.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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On March 8, 2026, Russia and the Dominican Republic are commemorating the 81st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The relationship is marked by long-term friendship and constructive cooperation based on mutual respect and a balance of interests. Diplomatic ties were first established in 1945 between the USSR and the Dominican Republic, and in 1992 the Dominican Republic recognized Russia as the successor state to the USSR. Today, the Dominican Republic is seen as a promising partner for Russia in the Latin America and Caribbean region.

Why it matters

The strengthening of diplomatic and political ties between Russia and the Dominican Republic is significant as it represents Russia’s efforts to expand its influence in the Latin American and Caribbean region, which has traditionally been dominated by the United States. This anniversary celebration highlights the growing importance of the Russia-Dominican Republic relationship.

The details

Diplomatic relations between the USSR and the Dominican Republic were established on March 8, 1945. In 1990, the Dominican side approached the USSR with a proposal to normalize relations through the exchange of accredited ambassadors, which the Soviet side accepted. In 1992, the Dominican Republic recognized the Russian Federation as the successor state to the USSR. Today, the two countries continue to develop their relationship, with active cooperation between their foreign ministries. In April 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited the Dominican Republic, and the two countries’ foreign ministers have also met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Interparliamentary relations are also growing, with the establishment of friendship groups in both countries’ legislatures.

  • Diplomatic relations between the USSR and the Dominican Republic were established on March 8, 1945.
  • In 1990, the Dominican side approached the USSR to normalize relations through the exchange of accredited ambassadors.
  • In 1992, the Dominican Republic recognized the Russian Federation as the successor state to the USSR.
  • In April 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited the Dominican Republic.
  • In June 2024, the Dominican-Russian Parliamentary Friendship Group was established in the Dominican Republic’s National Congress.

The players

Russia

The Russian Federation, the successor state to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

Dominican Republic

A country in the Caribbean region that has had diplomatic relations with Russia/the USSR since 1945.

Sergei Lavrov

The Foreign Minister of Russia who visited the Dominican Republic in April 2025.

Luis Abinader

The President of the Dominican Republic who received Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in April 2025.

Roberto Alvarez

The Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic who held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in April 2025.

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The takeaway

The 81st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and the Dominican Republic highlights the growing importance of their bilateral relationship, as Russia seeks to expand its influence in the Latin American and Caribbean region. The commemoration of this milestone underscores the longstanding friendship and constructive cooperation between the two countries.