African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has arrived in Bamako for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening relations between the continental body and Mali, which has remained suspended from participating in AU activities since June 2021.
During the visit, Youssouf is expected to meet Transitional President General Assimi Goïta after holding initial talks with Foreign Affairs Minister Abdoulaye Diop.
The mission follows calls by the AU Peace and Security Council for intensified dialogue with Mali on a return to constitutional order, while reaffirming support for the country’s sovereignty and recommending greater assistance to its security sector.
Despite Mali’s suspension, the African Union has maintained engagement through its Liaison Office for Mali and the Sahel and continued diplomatic consultations with the transitional authorities.
The visit comes as Mali continues implementing its revised Transition Charter, which allows General Goïta to remain head of state until conditions permit peaceful elections.
The African Union says the discussions are expected to clarify future cooperation, commitments by both sides, and the next steps in relations between Bamako and the continental organization.
