Mali: Assimi Goïta welcomes Nigerien counterpart to strengthen sahel alliance ties
The President of Mali, His Excellency General Assimi Goïta, who is also the current Chairman of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), welcomed his Nigerien counterpart, General Abdourahamane Tiani, at Bamako’s Modibo Keïta International Airport on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
This 24-hour visit underscores the ongoing strengthening of fraternal and cooperative relations between the two nations, which are founding members of the AES alongside Burkina Faso.
The welcoming ceremony featured a solemn protocol. The national anthems of Mali and Niger, along with that of the AES, were played, followed by a review of the troops by the two Heads of State.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including government members, representatives of the National Transition Council (CNT), the Governor of the Bamako District, and diplomats accredited to Mali.
The Nigerien community living in Mali also participated, demonstrating the peoples’ attachment to Sahelian unity.
Following the ceremonial events, Presidents Goïta and Tiani withdrew to the presidential lounge for an initial private discussion.
They subsequently proceeded to the Koulouba Palace for more in-depth talks in the presence of their respective delegations.
These discussions were expected to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation, security coordination in the fight against terrorism, and consolidating joint projects initiated within the AES framework.
During his stay, the Nigerien President was also scheduled to address the press to share the conclusions and future directions arising from his talks with his Malian counterpart.
This visit reflects the shared commitment of both leaders to reinforce the bonds of friendship and solidarity between Mali and Niger, and more broadly, to consolidate the vision championed by the Alliance of Sahel States.
By hosting General Abdourahamane Tiani, Mali reaffirms its commitment to working alongside its Sahel partners for the stability, security, and development of the region
Neil CAMARA
