Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso: Towards reconciliation in a joint fight against terrorism

The recent statement by the Ivorian Minister of Security and Defence, expressing a willingness to collaborate with the Burkina Faso authorities on security issues, has been welcomed as an encouraging sign by public opinion.

This announcement suggests that tensions between the two countries could be resolved, paving the way for closer cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

However, for this collaboration to bear fruit, it is essential that the two states hold a meeting to iron out any differences and avoid any ambiguity in their future actions.

The fight against terrorism, which is hitting the Sahel region and neighbouring countries hard, cannot be waged in isolation. Armed groups know no borders, and defeating them requires synergy between the nations affected.

Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, despite their past differences, have every interest in joining forces to tackle this common threat. To achieve this, it is imperative that the two countries put all tensions behind them and define a new basis for collaboration, based on trust and mutual respect.

A summit meeting between the authorities of Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso would be an ideal opportunity to address sensitive issues and establish a clear framework for cooperation.

Such a meeting would not only help to resolve misunderstandings, but also to put in place joint strategies to strengthen regional security.

The people of both countries, who aspire to peace and stability, deserve for their leaders to overcome their differences and work together to protect them.

It is time for Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso to turn the page on tensions and focus on the essentials: the fight against terrorism and preserving the security of their citizens.

By joining forces, the two countries will not only be able to strengthen their resilience in the face of armed groups, but also send a strong message to the region: cooperation and solidarity are the only way to defeat violent extremism.

The authorities in both countries must seize this historic opportunity to write a new chapter in their relationship, in the service of their populations and regional stability. The time has come to act together for a safer future.

Fanta KOUROUMA