The upcoming week will see the foreign ministers of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger embarking on a significant journey to Moscow in an effort to strengthen their ties with Russia. This move comes as the Sahel nations, all currently under military rule following recent coups, have opted to part ways with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and form the Confederation of Sahel States (AES).
Since their departure from ECOWAS, the junta-led governments have been focused on bolstering self-reliance and forging strategic partnerships with non-Western countries. In a notable shift, they have expelled French and other Western military forces, turning their attention towards cooperation with Russia.
During their scheduled visit on April 3 and 4, the ministers will engage in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at his invitation. The joint statement from the foreign ministries highlighted the significance of this meeting, describing it as a crucial step towards establishing cooperative and supportive relations between the AES and Russia in areas of mutual interest.
Referred to as the first session of “AES-Russia consultations,” the upcoming Moscow visit signifies a formal move towards deepening the bond between the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and Russia.
The Sahel nations of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are grappling with a persistent jihadist insurgency that has plagued the region for more than a decade. Originating in Mali and spreading across the southern Sahara, this insurgency has been linked to various groups affiliated with Islamic State and al-Qaeda, leading to numerous casualties in the region.
As the ministers gear up for their diplomatic mission to Moscow, the focus remains on addressing the security challenges posed by extremism in the Sahel region and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation with Russia in combating this threat.
