Senegal's president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, said he has done everything possible to bring Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger back into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), but his efforts have been unsuccessful. These three countries left the organisation earlier this year, claiming that it favours French interests and has failed in the fight against jihadism. Instead, they have formed their own alliance, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), and have strengthened ties with Russia, distancing themselves from their former colonial power.
Faye, who was appointed as mediator by ECOWAS in 2023, said he tried to promote dialogue, but recognised that these countries are sovereign and have the right to make their own decisions. Nevertheless, he stressed that every effort has been made to achieve their reintegration.
As for relations between Senegal and France, Faye said that it remains an important partner, although Senegal is in the process of negotiating the departure of French troops from the country before the end of the year. As part of this change, some French military installations in Dakar have already been returned to Senegal.
Source: barrons.com 05/04/2025