The Foreign Ministers of the The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and the President of the ECOWAS Commission convened in Bamako on Thurday, 22 May to initiate formal consultations, following the withdrawal of the three Sahelien nations (Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger) from the regional bloc.
This initial session represents a pivotal moment in the post-withdrawal process, as delegations from both blocs sought to chart a constructive path forward.
According to a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the parties agreed upon a framework of conclusions that will shape the forthcoming dialogue.
These discussions focused on political, diplomatic, institutional, legal, security, as well as economic and social development issues.
On security matters, delegates underscored the urgent need for deeper collaboration in tackling instability and reinforcing collective security measures.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to prioritising the welfare of the region’s citizens and pledged to uphold vital aspects of regional integration – particularly the free movement of people and goods – pending the formulation of new accords.
