Title: The Prime Minister of Niger visits Bamako: strengthened cooperation between the juntas of Niger and Mali
Introduction :
The Prime Minister appointed by the Niger junta, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, went to Bamako for a working visit, marking the strengthening of ties between the juntas of Niger and Mali. During his visit, he met his Malian counterpart Choguel Maïga as well as the head of the Malian junta, Colonel Assimi Goïta. This visit is of particular importance because it demonstrates solidarity between countries that have recently faced political changes. Furthermore, it paves the way for increased cooperation on defense and security issues.
Cooperation between the juntas of Niger and Mali:
Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine’s visit to Bamako is part of the strengthening of relations between the juntas of Niger and Mali. Both countries having recently faced coups, they have the opportunity to share their experience and help each other overcome the difficulties linked to these political developments. The working session between the two Prime Ministers made it possible to exchange advice and keys to circumvent the sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Mali, in particular, was able to share its experience on how to deal with these sanctions and minimize their consequences. This mutual cooperation is essential to allow both countries to regain stability and develop politically and economically.
Strengthening military cooperation:
An important part of the discussions between the two countries focused on military cooperation. Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso recently signed an alliance on defense issues, demonstrating their common desire to fight against terrorist groups plaguing the region. This working visit made it possible to strengthen this alliance and discuss joint military operations to be carried out. A source close to the meeting also indicated that these operations should increase in the future. In addition, the question of the diversification of foreign partners was raised, with a stated desire to strengthen military cooperation with Russia. This opening towards new partners will allow the juntas of Niger and Mali to benefit from additional support in their fight against terrorist groups and to strengthen their defense capacity.
Conclusion :
The visit of the Prime Minister of Niger to Bamako marks an important step towards strengthening cooperation between the juntas of Niger and Mali. Through this visit, the two countries were able to discuss the difficulties linked to recent political changes and found ways to help each other overcome them.. Military cooperation has been strengthened, with discussions on joint operations to be carried out and the diversification of foreign partners, particularly with Russia. These initiatives demonstrate the desire of the two countries to combat the security challenges they face and to work together to ensure their stability and development.