In brief
In a joint communique released on Thursday, Niger’s President Abdourahamane Tiani and Mali’s transitional president Assimi Goita reaffirmed their dedication to the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and pledged to fortify their joint fight against terrorism. The leaders highlighted the achievements of the AES Unified Force, condemned mercenary interference, and agreed to coordinate future visits and collaborative policies across security, diplomacy, and development. Goita invited Tiani to visit Mali, a visit the Nigerien president has accepted and will be scheduled through diplomatic channels.
At the end of a visiting itinerary in Niamey on Thursday, Niger’s president Abdourahamane Tiani and Mali’s transitional president Assimi Goita issued a joint communique reaffirming their commitment to the Confederation of Sahel States and pledging to intensify collective counter‑terrorism efforts.
The communiqué announced that the two leaders had met separately before convening an expanded working session that included delegates from both countries. The meeting, which took place at Diori Hamani International Airport upon Goita’s arrival and then at the presidential palace, centered on security, diplomacy, and development initiatives within the AES framework.
On security matters, Tiani and Goita welcomed the results achieved by the AES Unified Force, an integrated military operation aimed at suppressing terrorist groups in the region. Both leaders reasserted their determination to eliminate terrorism “in all its forms.” Their statements also condemned attempts by external mercenaries—allegedly supported by foreign governments—to destabilize the confederation’s member states.
Diplomatically, the communique emphasized the value of coordinating positions and initiatives across AES member states. The leaders said that such coordination strengthened the confederation’s visibility and standing on subregional, African, and international stages.
The joint communiqué highlighted three main policy domains for deeper collaboration: the free movement of people and goods, transport infrastructure development, and the agro‑industrial, energy, and mineral sectors.
Goita used the occasion to invite President Tiani to an official visit to Mali, an invitation that the Nigerien leader accepted. The specific date of the visit will be determined through diplomatic channels, the communiqué noted.
The Confederation of Sahel States—formed in July 2024 by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—provides an overarching framework for defense, security, diplomatic, and developmental cooperation among the three countries. Officials said the alliance has been instrumental in aligning policies and leveraging shared resources across the Sahel region.
As the two leaders concluded their meetings, they reiterated a shared vision of a stable, secure Sahel. They underscored the importance of continued partnership to safeguard citizens, protect borders, and promote economic growth within their confederation.
