NIAMEY, Niger — Foreign ministers from Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso concluded their meeting in Niamey on Friday, May 17, 2024, with a strong commitment to enhance the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as a key instrument for defense, diplomacy, and development across the region.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the ministers endorsed the Liptako-Gourma Charter, which was adopted on September 16, 2023, formalizing the AES under the leadership of the transitional heads of state from the three countries: Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, Colonel Assimi Goïta of Mali, and Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger. The ministers emphasized their dedication to operationalizing the AES Confederation and praised the establishment of a National Committee in Niger tasked with this goal.

The meeting also saw the adoption of proposals for better coordination of diplomatic efforts, including Burkina Faso’s initiative to develop joint diplomatic directives and Mali’s strategy to foster an AES communications strategy. These measures aim to solidify the alliance’s presence and policies on the international stage.

Additionally, the ministers stressed the importance of involving the diaspora in AES activities through diplomatic missions and establishing solidarity mechanisms within the alliance to support a unified approach to regional challenges.

The conference further reviewed and finalized preliminary drafts for the AES Confederation Treaty, which will be presented for adoption at the next summit of heads of state. The ministers also expressed appreciation for the support from the 15th session of the Islamic Conference at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation summit, which backed the Sahel states’ efforts and rejected external interference in their affairs.

The successful organization of the meeting in Niamey was also acknowledged, with special thanks given to the government and people of Niger for hosting the event and providing necessary facilities.