Burkina Faso – Côte d’Ivoire: Time for appeasement and cooperation, far from unnecessary tensions and divisions
The historical and cultural links between Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire are undeniable. As the Ivorian Defence Minister, Téné Birahima Ouattara, recently pointed out, these two nations share much more than a border; they have intermingled populations, common languages and a history forged by decades of cooperation.
However, in the face of the current tensions exacerbated by certain activists, it is imperative to favour the path of dialogue and to move beyond the manipulations that are poisoning relations between the two states.
The authorities in both countries must refuse to be influenced by partisan rhetoric amplified by social networks, and work to strengthen the foundations of a lasting understanding.
In this context, it is essential that the governments of both countries demonstrate responsibility and openness by setting up regular consultation forums.
The foreign affairs ministers of Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire must be put in touch immediately to establish a schedule of meetings, thus promoting a constructive exchange on common issues.
Similarly, the ministers responsible for security should meet to harmonise their strategies in the face of security challenges and cross-border threats.
Such coordination will help avoid any unnecessary escalation and consolidate a climate of mutual trust.
Now is the time for appeasement and cooperation. Neither Burkina Faso nor Côte d’Ivoire would benefit from prolonging tensions that only serve the interests of those who stir up divisions.
Unity and fraternity must prevail over discord, because it is together that these two States can meet the security and economic challenges they face.
The shared history of Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire imposes a responsibility on the current leaders: that of preserving peace, working for the well-being of their populations and strengthening the age-old ties that unite these two brotherly countries.
Ibrahim ASSOUAN
