Ouagadougou: Burkina Faso is redefining its diplomatic approach under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traore, aiming to assert its sovereignty and align with the aspirations of its population, according to Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo. During a presentation before the Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT), Ouedraogo emphasized the nation's shift from a diplomacy of convenience to one that asserts sovereignty.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Prime Minister Ouedraogo highlighted that Burkina Faso's diplomacy in 2025 was characterized by strengthening ties with Mali and Niger through the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). He noted significant institutional and strategic advancements, including the adoption of additional protocols to the founding treaty of the ESA, enhancing diplomatic coordination, defense, development policies, and parliamentary orientations.
Ouedraogo commended the leadership of ALT President Ousmane Bougouma and his counterparts from Mali and Niger for facilitating the adoption of protocols for confederal parliamentary sessions. He also mentioned the confidence placed in President Traore during a session of the College of Heads of State in December 2025, where Traore was chosen to preside over the Confederation.
The Prime Minister asserted that launching the AES Unified Force marked a pivotal step in securing the region and underscored Burkina Faso's determination to manage its security. He also highlighted ongoing consultations among Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which have led to a unified stance on regional and international issues, thereby enhancing their influence.
Ouedraogo celebrated achievements such as the implementation of the AES biometric identification card and the establishment of a confederal bank and media outlets. He reiterated Burkina Faso's sovereign decisions to withdraw from the International Organisation of the Francophonie and the International Criminal Court, citing the need to escape neo-colonial influences.
Additionally, the Prime Minister lauded Burkina Faso's participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where the nation reaffirmed its commitment to equitable multilateralism and self-determination. He emphasized Burkina Faso's dedication to a rule-based global order respecting sovereign equality, peaceful dispute resolution, and non-interference.
The Constitution of Burkina Faso mandates the Prime Minister to present the state of the nation to deputies at the opening of the National Assembly's first session, which Ouedraogo fulfilled, ensuring a platform for debate without necessitating a vote.