Moscow – In a rapidly changing geopolitical context, the foreign ministers of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have begun a crucial working visit to Moscow. Their Excellencies Abdoulaye DIOP (Mali), Bakary Yaou SANGARE (Niger), and Karamoko Jean Marie TRAORE (Burkina Faso) met to prepare high-level discussions with their Russian counterpart, Sergey LAVROV, scheduled for April 3rd. The goal: to energize and deepen cooperation between the AES and the Russian Federation.
A strategic dialogue for the future of the Sahel
On the eve of this bilateral meeting, the three ministers held a preparatory meeting behind closed doors, followed by an extended session with their experts. Under the chairmanship of Malian Minister Abdoulaye DIOP, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the AES, the delegations defined a common roadmap. Discussions with the Russian side will focus on crucial issues for the Sahel region.
“We are here to explore the modalities of a strengthened partnership with Russia, focused on peace, security, and the sovereignty of our space,” declared Abdoulaye DIOP. “We also wish to address the geopolitical and development issues that concern our countries.”
Common aspirations and mutual interests
The Nigerien and Burkinabe ministers emphasized the importance of defining a common approach and methodology for exchanges with Russia. They stressed the need to take into account the aspirations and expectations of the AES populations.
“We must develop a common vision to strengthen our cooperation with Russia, while preserving our national interests,” affirmed Bakary Yaou SANGARE.
“This visit marks an important step in building a strategic partnership with Russia,” added Karamoko Jean Marie TRAORE.
Historical bilateral relations to consolidate
Beyond the multilateral discussions, the Malian, Nigerien, and Burkinabe delegations will also have bilateral meetings with their Russian counterparts. These meetings will consolidate the long-standing friendly and cooperative relations each of the three countries has with the Russian Federation.
This visit to Moscow comes at a pivotal moment for the Sahel region, facing major security and economic challenges. Strengthening cooperation with Russia could open new perspectives for the AES countries.
