Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye reported progress in convincing Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to stay with ECOWAS after their departure announcement. Facing security issues from jihadist violence, these countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States, pivoting towards Russia. Faye aims to prevent the disintegration of ECOWAS while advocating for necessary reforms within the block.

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has reported notable progress in his diplomatic efforts to persuade junta-led nations Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to remain affiliated with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This mission follows their announcement in January 2023 regarding their intended departure from the regional bloc, which they criticized for being subservient to France and not providing adequate support in their battle against jihadist movements. The withdrawal will officially take effect in January 2025, following a one-year notice period as stipulated by ECOWAS policies.

In the context of their departure, these three states have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States, aligning more closely with Russia after severing military ties with France. In his remarks at the Doha Forum in Qatar, President Faye expressed optimism, stating, “I am making progress with this mission.” He emphasized that while the Alliance exists and addresses significant security challenges, it should not lead to the deterioration of ECOWAS.

Faye’s comments precede an upcoming ECOWAS summit, where he is expected to advocate for an overarching reform of the organization, suggesting that past advancements should not overshadow governance issues that necessitate modernization. The region has faced challenges, including a wave of coup d’états since 2020, highlighting the instability that has prompted calls for governance reform amidst growing violence from extremist groups since 2012.

Moreover, in line with his vision for economic transformation, President Faye seeks to attract international investment, asserting Senegal’s commitment to being sovereign yet open to partnerships that respect national standards and promote mutual benefits. Overall, his efforts aim not only to address immediate security concerns but also to strengthen Senegal’s standing within the regional cooperative framework.

The current geopolitical landscape in the Sahel region has been characterized by increasing instability, predominantly due to jihadist violence that first erupted in northern Mali in 2012 and subsequently spread to neighboring countries. In this context, the military regimes of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger took the unprecedented step of severing ties with ECOWAS, accusing it of failing to provide the necessary support against extremist threats and being influenced by former colonial powers. President Faye of Senegal, tasked with mediating this ongoing crisis, aims to maintain cohesion within ECOWAS while addressing the sovereignty and security needs of these member states.

In conclusion, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s mediation efforts signify a crucial initiative to retain the participation of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger within ECOWAS. His commitment to collaborative security and governance reform reflects a strategic approach to addressing both regional instability and national sovereignty. As ECOWAS prepares for its upcoming summit, the emphasis on mutual respect and beneficial partnerships will be pivotal in navigating the challenges facing the Sahel.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr

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