AES: Sahelian unity strengthened in the face of security and economic challenges, supported by a strong governance
The President of the Republic of Niger, General Abdourahamane Tiani, undertook a friendship and working visit to Mali and Burkina Faso, two founding member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Welcomed in Bamako by the President of the Malian Transition, General Assimi Goïta, and then in Ouagadougou by the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, this tour illustrates the political will of the three states to strengthen their strategic cooperation.
In Mali, the discussions focused on the pillars of the AES: defense and security, diplomacy, and development.
President Tiani praised the solidarity shown by Mali and Burkina Faso during the attempted isolation of Niger in 2023, emphasizing that this ordeal strengthened Sahelian unity.
He announced that the joint AES force is now operational, with a headquarters in Niamey and battalions engaged in coordinated operations.
On the diplomatic front, the three countries are defending a common position in international forums. Regarding development, the Confederation Investment and Development Bank is ready to be launched in Bamako.
In Ouagadougou, the courtesy visit served to reaffirm the excellent relations between Niger and Burkina Faso.
The two heads of state discussed regional security, governance, and diplomacy, guided by a logic of bringing the peoples of the Sahel together around a project of shared sovereignty and prosperity.
This presidential tour embodies the political vision of the three countries: to build a strong confederation based on solidarity, stability, and development.
The AES presents itself as a Sahelian response to security and economic challenges, driven by popular will and assertive governance.
Neil CAMARA
