“The Alliance of Sahel States: a new step towards regional military cooperation”
Bamako, Ouagadougou and Niamey recently took a major step forward in their military cooperation by signing the Liptako-Gourma Charter. This charter, signed by the heads of the three juntas in power in these countries, aims to create a new entity called the Alliance of Sahel States. The main objective of this alliance is to establish mechanisms for collective defense and mutual assistance.
The signing of this charter marks an important step in the political history of these three countries. Indeed, the juntas in power in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have decided to unite to face the various threats weighing on the Sahel region. In the event of an attack on the sovereignty or territorial integrity of one of the Member States, the other States are committed to providing assistance and support, including through the use of armed force if necessary.
This cooperation goes beyond simple military cooperation. Indeed, the member states of the Alliance of Sahel States also undertake to collaborate in the fight against terrorism and organized crime, as well as in the resolution of armed rebellions. However, the peaceful route remains favored, even if the use of force is considered as a possibility. Importantly, this solidarity extends to attacks on member states’ security forces, ships and aircraft, both at home and abroad.
This regional cooperation initiative comes as the three juntas have already expressed their refusal to apply ECOWAS sanctions against Niger. They consider these sanctions illegal and inhumane. In addition, the Niger authorities recently signed orders allowing Malian and Burkinabé soldiers to intervene in their country in the event of aggression. These signs show that the juntas are determined to protect their common interests and defend their sovereignty in the face of external pressures.
Meanwhile, demonstrations took place in Niamey to demand the departure of French forces present in the country. These demonstrations, organized by the Committee to Support the Putschists, reflect a certain distrust of the foreign military presence. The demonstrators express their feeling of imperialism and demand the withdrawal of all foreign military forces.
In conclusion, the signing of the Liptako-Gourma Charter and the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States mark an important step in military cooperation between Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. This alliance aims to strengthen collective defense and mutual assistance in the face of threats to the Sahel region.. However, tensions persist over the presence of foreign military forces, illustrating the challenges the region faces in its quest for stability and security.