Foreign ministers from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso convened on Saturday, plunging into the region’s formidable dilemmas like terrorism, unstable political landscapes, and rocky relations with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This earnest discourse unfurled against the backdrop of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in its namesake Turkish city.
The gathering unfurled as “Sahel: The Future of Regional Integration,” graced by the notable presence of Mali’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Abdoulaye Diop, Niger’s Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare, and Burkina Faso’s Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabes Abroad Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traore.
Diop profoundly remarked on the existential quagmire enveloping the Alliance of Sahel States (AES): a dual battle against terrorism and the looming shadows of military coups. “Our nations stand ready to engage with the world,” Diop confidently asserted, “eagerly forging ahead with regional integration.” His resounding words elevate the African community as a distinctive tapestry woven with diversity and unity. Delving beyond martial affairs, the AES aspires to cultivate opportunities for younger generations, steering them away from the perils of irregular migration and potential radicalization.
“We’ve witnessed Western powers casting embargoes, shackling our access to crucial military arsenals,” Diop criticized, his voice tinged with frustration. “Hence the pivot to nations like Türkiye, China, and Russia—our requisitions met, albeit through purchase not charity.” He further lambasted the United Nations for its reticence within Mali. “The U.N. watches as numbers on a ledger, unmoving in the face of terrorism,” Diop remarked, his tone unapologetically sharp.
Similarly vocal, Sangare voiced grievances against ECOWAS, denouncing its diversion from original intents. “They’ve sidelined member welfare,” he lamented, elaborating on their departure. Sangare further illuminated how the withdrawal of foreign military forces, notably the French, disrupted terror financing avenues. “We’re witnessing hewing attacks, diminishing losses,” his words borne with a glimmer of hope amidst a prolonged struggle. His gratitude towards Türkiye for their unwavering support underscored the conversation.
Traore, with an emboldened optimism, reflected on how Burkina Faso, once half-occupied by insurgents in 2022, now celebrates the reclamation of 71% of its territory. Developmental strides echo this newfound security. “This year alone, the birth of five factories marks our progress,” Traore shared, challenging narratives of dread overshadowing investment. Collaboration with Türkiye transcends mere military aid, seeping into broad development fronts, emphasized Traore, when recounting the synergistic connection shared by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
