Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, has reaffirmed the irreversible departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), despite the bloc’s efforts for reconciliation.
Earlier this year, the military leaders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso withdrew from ECOWAS and recently formed a confederation of their own. Following this, ECOWAS heads of state met in Abuja and appointed the presidents of Senegal and Togo as mediators for dialogue with the three Sahel states.
Diop emphasized Mali’s openness to cooperation with ECOWAS during an appearance on state broadcaster ORTM, but he criticized the potential introduction of visas for nationals of the three countries traveling within ECOWAS.
The decision to exit the bloc was partly driven by accusations that France was manipulating ECOWAS and failing to provide adequate support for anti-jihadist efforts. Diop stated, “Our heads of state were very clear in Niamey when they said the withdrawal of the three countries from ECOWAS is irrevocable and was done without delay, and from now on we must stop looking in the rear-view mirror.”
While Mali remains open to collaborating with neighboring countries and other organizations, Diop insisted that the path they have embarked upon is irreversible. He highlighted that the creation of a confederation is just one stage, with the ultimate vision being a federation of the three states.
Despite ECOWAS stipulating a one-year exit timeframe, the juntas have asserted that their withdrawal is effective immediately. This has raised concerns about the impact on the free movement of goods and people within the region. Diop warned that if visas are reintroduced, it would confirm suspicions that some ECOWAS officials are resorting to outdated methods of intimidation and blackmail.
Diop concluded by stressing the importance of minimizing the impact on populations during this integration process, acknowledging that while there are gains and losses, efforts must be made to ensure the well-being of the people.
