Morocco Strengthens Economic Ties with Sahel Alliance
In a significant development, the leaders of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have formed the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and are seeking new trade routes through Morocco after withdrawing from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The announcement was made during a meeting with King Mohammed VI in Rabat, highlighting the growing partnership between Morocco and the Sahel region.
Since their withdrawal from ECOWAS in 2024, the landlocked countries have been exploring alternative partnerships to overcome trade restrictions and diplomatic isolation. The AES alliance has taken steps to distance itself from traditional Western partners, expelling French forces and deepening military cooperation with Russia.
Morocco’s offer to serve as an economic gateway for the AES bloc comes as a lifeline, providing potential access to global markets and reducing dependence on ECOWAS border states. The initiative, first announced in November 2023, includes access to Morocco’s Atlantic ports to facilitate trade for the Sahel countries.
This strategic move by Morocco not only strengthens its regional influence but also promotes economic development in the Sahel region. The initiative has been well-received by the AES leaders, with Mali’s Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop acknowledging its contribution to diversifying access to the sea.
The meeting in Rabat underscored the strong and longstanding relations between Morocco and the Sahel Alliance. The support from Morocco comes at a time of heightened tensions between the AES bloc and Algeria, Morocco’s regional rival.
Morocco’s investments in the region, particularly in agriculture and banking, demonstrate its commitment to the Sahel countries’ development. The construction of a $1 billion port in Dakhla, within the disputed Western Sahara territory, further emphasizes Morocco’s focus on maritime infrastructure and asserting control in the region.
In a recent diplomatic success, Morocco played a key role in facilitating the release of four French citizens imprisoned in Burkina Faso. This diplomatic gesture, coupled with France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, aligns Rabat with the emerging leadership in the Sahel region.
Overall, Morocco’s proactive approach in strengthening economic ties with the Sahel Alliance not only benefits the participating countries but also enhances regional cooperation and stability. The partnership between Morocco and the AES bloc signifies a new chapter in economic collaboration and mutual development in the Sahel region.
