Lomé, December 14, 2024 -(©AfreePress)- The ministerial meeting of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), held on December 13, 2024, in Niamey, marked a decisive step in redefining regional relations. Under the chairmanship of the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdoulaye Diop, the heads of delegation of the AES member countries reaffirmed the “irreversible” decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
During the opening ceremony, ministerial delegations praised the strategic vision and enlightened leadership of the Heads of State of AES member countries. They reiterated their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, placing the deep aspirations of the populations at the heart of their priorities, particularly through the free movement of people and goods.
The ministers highlighted the significant progress achieved since the security meeting in Bamako last November, underlining the importance of harmonizing travel and identity documents within the Confederation. This initiative will not only facilitate economic exchanges but also consolidate the social integration of Sahelian populations.
The discussions also focused on regional security and the coordination of Defense and Security Forces (FDS) of the three countries in the fight against terrorism. The ministers praised the successes achieved on the ground by the FDS of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger against armed groups. They reaffirmed their states’ commitment to continuing efforts to neutralize security threats facing the region.
While firmly condemning the terrorist acts targeting civilian populations and defense forces, the ministers expressed their determination to counter these destructive forces. They praised the resilience of the Sahelian people and the authorities’ commitment to restoring peace and stability within the AES space.
The representatives of the three states emphasized the need to deepen strategic reflections to promote the economic and social development of the region. They recalled that the decision to withdraw from ECOWAS, though definitive, is part of a process aimed at building a more autonomous, united, and resilient confederation in the face of contemporary challenges.
Moreover, the ministers announced the upcoming expanded meetings of customs and security administrations to ensure the effective implementation of the decisions taken.
At the close of the meeting, the ministers paid tribute to the civilian and military victims of terrorist attacks. They expressed their solidarity with the affected populations and called for a collective mobilization to address regional challenges.
Finally, they reiterated their commitment to building a strong and united Confederation, capable of meeting the aspirations for peace, security, and prosperity of the peoples of the Sahel.
Olivier ADJA
