Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to strengthen cooperation with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to ensure the stability of the region. Speaking at the 2024 Doha Forum in Qatar, Faye emphasized that collaboration between the two entities is vital for addressing terrorism, and migration, and enhancing trade relations across the Sahel.
The Senegalese leader highlighted the significant terrorist threats facing the AES, noting the need for continued unity within the group. He stressed that maintaining strong ties among AES members is essential to combatting the escalating security challenges.
Faye’s call for enhanced cooperation comes amidst strained relations between ECOWAS and the AES, particularly following the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS. The countries cited concerns over external influence and threats to national sovereignty. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu had previously called for Senegal’s assistance in facilitating the return of these nations to the ECOWAS fold.
The 2024 Doha Forum, held on December 7-8 under the theme “The Innovation Imperative,” serves as a platform for global policymakers to discuss pressing geopolitical issues and develop actionable solutions.
