The Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger—three nations united under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—are led by juntas that seized power through coups between 2020 and 2023. These governments advocate for a sovereignist agenda, distancing themselves from Western influence.
key leaders convene in Bamako for strategic discussions
On Monday, Malian junta leader Assimi Goïta hosted his counterpart, Niger’s General Abdourahamane Tiani, in Bamako. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso’s Captain Ibrahim Traoré, initially expected on Monday, is set to arrive on Tuesday to continue the summit, as confirmed by Malian authorities.
military collaboration takes shape amid growing jihadist threats
The primary focus of the meeting is advancing plans for a joint military force to counter the expanding reach of jihadist groups across their borders. On Saturday, Assimi Goïta presented an official banner to the AES Unified Force (FU-AES), marking its symbolic activation. However, authorities have yet to announce a concrete timeline for its full operational deployment.
current security challenges in the Sahel
For over a decade, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have faced relentless attacks by groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. These threats have intensified, particularly in southern Mali, where jihadists are systematically disrupting the economy of this landlocked nation.
In Burkina Faso and Niger, the situation remains dire as insurgent forces challenge central governance, forcing thousands of civilians into displacement.
“We have allocated the necessary resources. Each country has contributed troops and equipment. We will stand together on the ground,” stated a spokesperson from Mali’s Ministry of Defense to AFP.
economic and media initiatives unveiled at the summit
The leaders also inaugurated the headquarters of “Télévision AES,” a new regional news outlet, though its official launch date remains undisclosed. Additionally, the summit is expected to formalize plans for a trilateral investment bank, headquartered in Bamako, to foster economic cooperation.
Since distancing themselves from France and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the AES countries have strengthened ties with alternative partners, including Russia.
