Sahel Alliance Boosts Diplomatic Action, Denounces 'Disinformation Campaigns'

The Sahel Confederation of States (AES), an alliance of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has resolved to enhance its diplomatic coordination to present a united front on the international stage. Foreign ministers from the three Sahelian nations met in Bamako and agreed to act "with a single voice" while condemning what they termed "disinformation campaigns" fueled by "foreign powers."

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with a single voice

In addition to strengthening diplomatic ties, the AES member states committed to better coordinating their communication strategies to counter "hostile narratives" directed against the confederation. A joint statement emphasized the agreement to bolster coordination and synergy among communication departments, structures, agencies, and actors within the three countries. Measures were also approved to diversify and consolidate the AES's international partnerships.

The confederation also condemned a recent offensive launched on April 25 by a coalition of jihadist and separatist rebel groups in Mali. The AES asserted that this attack, aimed at hindering the confederation's progress in preserving sovereignty and achieving shared prosperity, was backed by "foreign state sponsors."

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disinformation campaigns

Furthermore, the AES denounced an attempted incursion by jihadists targeting Niamey airport on Thursday, which resulted in the deaths of eleven Nigerien soldiers, two civilians, and twenty-two attackers. This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region.

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hostile narratives

The AES was established in 2023 by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, all governed by military juntas, after their withdrawal from the regional bloc ECOWAS. The confederation adopts a critical stance towards the West, has established a common defense pact against active jihadist groups in the region, and promotes economic cooperation among its members.

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foreign state sponsors