BAMAKO — The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has introduced a new collective defense mechanism to combat terrorism and organized crime in the region, marking a significant shift in regional cooperation, said Malian President Colonel Assimi Goïta during a speech celebrating the first anniversary of the AES.
According to Burkina Information Agency, who currently presides over the Confederation of Sahel States, the formation of the AES through the Liptako-Gourma Charter on September 16, 2023, established a framework for mutual defense and cooperation among Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Goïta highlighted the significant progress made by the region’s defense forces, claiming that the strategic alliance has weakened armed terrorist groups. He emphasized the broader goals of the AES, which include strengthening cooperation in diplomacy and development to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the Sahel region. Goïta reaffirmed the confederation’s openness to cooperation with friendly nations, stressing that the AES aims to be an alliance of both states and peoples.