Ouagadougou:The foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger convened on October 14 and 15, 2026, in Ouagadougou to finalize strategic approaches and harmonize the confederal stance of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in preparation for upcoming discussions with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
According to Burkina Information Agency, Burkina Faso's Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, stated that the meeting aimed to establish a discussion framework with ECOWAS, focusing on safeguarding the interests of West African populations. Experts from the three countries collaborated over two days to propose an agenda and tools for guiding the dialogue with ECOWAS.
Traoré emphasized that this initiative signifies a new phase in the relationship between AES and ECOWAS, now seen as separate entities within West Africa. He refuted claims about the AES's desire to rejoin ECOWAS, as reported in some media outlets.
Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop highlighted that diplomacy is crucial for the Confederation, enabling the three countries to present a unified front in discussions. He noted that talks with ECOWAS are conducted with openness, responsibility, and consideration of regional ties.
Diop further explained that the negotiations aim to establish a legal framework for relations between AES and ECOWAS, respecting the decisions of ESA member leaders and populations. He stressed the importance of defending their confederal choice while accommodating regional realities and interests.
Niger's Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, described the Ouagadougou meeting as vital for the negotiation process with ECOWAS. He confirmed the commitment of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to their Confederation's goals.
Sangaré emphasized that the Confederation is not opposed to any entity but is designed to protect the interests of their citizens. He expressed confidence in the Confederation's mission as they head to Dakar for further discussions.
The Ouagadougou meeting serves as a preparatory step for the Dakar talks, where representatives from AES and ECOWAS will continue discussions to formalize their relationship. The goal is to establish a cooperative framework that respects the political directions and interests of the three member states' populations.