AES / The Alliance of Sahel States continues its quest for sovereignty: Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger confirm their exit from ECOWAS
In a quest for sovereignty and the affirmation of their independence, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have reiterated their irrevocable decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop confirmed this position in a statement, highlighting the determination of these countries to pursue their path toward enhanced autonomy.
Abdoulaye Diop affirmed that the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS is definitive. This decision stems from a common desire of the three countries to free themselves from the constraints imposed by ECOWAS and to take control of their own destiny. Despite attempts at dialogue and cooperation proposals from ECOWAS, the three Sahelian countries deemed it necessary to maintain their position to defend their sovereign interests.
Although the withdrawal from ECOWAS is irreversible, the AES countries remain open to forms of cooperation with ECOWAS. The objective is to develop strategic partnerships that respect the sovereignty of each country while promoting peace, security, and economic development in the region.
The departure from ECOWAS is part of a broader strategy by AES countries to strengthen their political and economic independence. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger seek to establish relationships based on equality and mutual respect, free from constraining external influences. This approach aims to ensure more autonomous management of resources and to promote development policies tailored to the specific needs of their populations.
