The President, John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana and Mali will establish joint technical teams to strengthen bilateral relations and address the growing security challenges in the Sahel region.
He underscored the need for closer collaboration between the two West African Countries to achieve this purpose.
Speaking on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Accra, he called for joint efforts to combat insurgency and terrorism, stressing the significance of fostering peace and enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
Mr. Mahama made these remarks during a close-door meeting with Malian Prime Minister, Abdoulaye Maïga. The Prime Minister delivered a special message on behalf of Mali’s President, Assimi Goïta, highlighting the country’s perspective on regional issues.
President Mahama further acknowledged the sovereign decisions of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to form separate confederations following sanctions imposed by ECOWAS.
However, he emphasised that maintaining strong ties within the region remains critical despite these challenges and also expressed optimism about the future of regional integration.
“While these developments are temporary setbacks, I am confident that West Africa will eventually reunite under a common regional framework,” he stated.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with Mali and other Sahel nations to ensure the region’s peace, security, and sustainable development.
President Mahama’s assurance is in relation to the six-month grace period given to Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to reconsider their stance and restore democratic rule following their recently sanctioned from the ECOWAS bloc due to their refusal to transition to civilian governance.
