Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso Leaders Meet in Bamako for Sahel States Summit. Bamako, Mali — The military leaders of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso gathered in Bamako for the second edition of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) summit, aiming to bolster regional autonomy and cooperation.
The summit, which focuses on defense, security, development, and counterterrorism, marks a significant step away from the West African regional bloc ECOWAS.
President of Mali Assimi Goïta and Niger’s President Abdourahamane Tchiani met at Bamako’s airport on Monday before proceeding to the presidential palace. Burkinabe President Ibrahim Traoré arrived on Tuesday following an unexpected delay.
The formation of the AES in 2023 and the subsequent withdrawal from ECOWAS in 2024 followed a series of military coups and disputes with Western partners.
The three countries announced the creation of a joint military force to combat terrorism in the region ahead of the summit.
On Tuesday, Goïta, Tchiani, and Traoré launched the AES TV broadcaster, intended to counter disinformation and promote the bloc’s interests. Goïta, who was appointed president of the AES last year, is expected to be succeeded by a new head during this week’s summit.
Despite withdrawing from ECOWAS, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso remain part of the West African Economic and Monetary Union, ensuring continued trade and free movement among its members.
The three junta — led countries have introduced their own travel documents for citizens, further asserting their autonomy. ECOWAS has indicated openness to allowing the three nations to continue benefiting from certain bloc privileges, including trade.
Further details are expected as the summit progresses.
