In brief
In a joint communique issued in Niamey, Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tiani and Mali’s transitional president Assimi Goita reaffirmed their commitment to the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and to strengthening security cooperation. They condemned mercenary interference and agreed to coordinate future visits and policies across security, diplomacy and development. The move underscores the AES’s role in regional anti‑terrorism efforts.
At a working anniversary visit in Niamey on November 6, Niger and Mali leaders issued a joint communique that reaffirmed their commitment to the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and to intensifying the fight against terrorism, a statement released by Xinhua on Thursday.
Meeting and Commitments
The communique followed a one‑on‑one meeting between Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tiani and Malian transitional president Assimi Goita, held after Goita’s arrival at Diori Hamani International Airport. Both leaders then chaired an expanded working session attended by delegations from the two countries.
The discussion focused on the security situation across the AES region and the advances achieved in defense and security, diplomacy and development. In particular, the leaders welcomed the progress of the AES Unified Force in combating terrorist groups and pledged to eradicate terrorism in all its forms.
The communique also condemned attempts to destabilize member states by mercenaries allegedly backed by foreign governments. It called for a united front against such external interference and for cooperation in intelligence sharing and joint operations.
Diplomatically, the leaders emphasized coordination of positions and initiatives among AES countries as a means of strengthening the confederation’s visibility and standing at the sub‑regional, African and international levels. They highlighted joint efforts to harmonize policies on free movement, transport infrastructure, agro‑industrial development and energy and mineral resource exploitation.
Looking ahead, Goita invited Tiani to an official visit to Mali, a request that Tiani accepted. The two sides agreed that the visit’s date would be set through diplomatic channels, as indicated in the joint communique.
Context and Impact
The Confederation of Sahel States, established in July 2024 by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, provides a framework for cooperation in defense, security, diplomacy and development. The alliance aims to coordinate joint military operations, share intelligence and promote economic integration among the three core member states.
By reasserting their commitment, Niger and Mali signal a continued partnership that could enhance regional stability and reduce the influence of militant groups in the Sahel. Their condemnation of mercenary interventions also reinforces an anti‑interference stance that has become a cornerstone of the region’s security narrative.
While the communique was produced by Xinhua, it reflects broader regional efforts to strengthen the AES’s unified force and coordinate policies that address both immediate security concerns and long‑term developmental priorities.
