In a significant move towards enhancing regional cooperation and security, the leaders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso convened in a historic summit to form a new alliance of Sahel States. The summit, marking the first-of-its-kind for these leaders, focused on combating terrorism and boosting mutual cooperation without foreign intervention. This alliance, established in response to the inadequate anti-jihadist support from former colonial powers and dissatisfaction with the wider ECOWAS bloc, aims to create a unified military command to tackle jihadist violence that has plagued the region for years. Additionally, discussions on launching a common currency were also on the agenda.
- The leaders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso held a historic summit to establish a new alliance of Sahel States aimed at regional cooperation and security.
- The summit focused on the fight against terrorism and boosting cooperation without the involvement of foreign stakeholders.
- A mutual defense pact was set up by the three nations in September, announcing plans for joint anti-jihadist efforts and the creation of a single military command.
- The alliance seeks to address the deadly jihadist violence linked to Islamic State groups, which has resulted in thousands of civilian and soldier deaths, along with the displacement of millions.
- The formation of this new alliance comes after the countries left the wider ECOWAS bloc in January, citing manipulation by former colonial ruler France and insufficient anti-jihadist support.
- The leaders have shown an interest in pivoting towards Russia, Turkey, and Iran for support after turning their backs on ECOWAS.
- ECOWAS is set to hold talks with the leaders of the new alliance in Nigeria to discuss relations with the bloc.
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