Illustration: africanews.com

High-Level Talks and Regional Autonomy

The Alliance of Sahel States, comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, is taking significant steps towards regional autonomy. The recent high-level talks in Bamako, Mali, during the second edition of the AES summit, aimed to enhance cooperation within the alliance and reduce dependence on the West African regional bloc ECOWAS. The summit focused on defense, security, development, communication, and counterterrorism efforts across the three states.

Creation of Joint Military Force and TV Broadcaster

President Assimi Goïta of Mali, President Abdourahamane Tchiani of Niger, and President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso formed an alliance in 2023 and withdrew from ECOWAS following fallout with Western partners due to military coups. Prior to the summit, they announced the establishment of a joint military force to combat terrorism in the region. Additionally, they launched the Alliance of Sahel States TV broadcaster to counter disinformation and promote the bloc's interests.

Continued Autonomy and Economic Relations

Despite their withdrawal from ECOWAS, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are still open to certain bloc privileges, including trade. The three junta-led countries have introduced their travel documents for citizens to assert their autonomy. They remain members of the West African Economic and Monetary Union, ensuring continued trade and free movement of goods among its eight members.