On November 5, 2026, Malian President General Assimi Goïta visited Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, where he met with Burkinabè President Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The two leaders discussed several issues of common interest, including bilateral, confederal, sub-regional, and international matters. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between their countries to address common challenges. This meeting aimed to enhance their partnership within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The two leaders emphasized the importance of security cooperation and the upcoming holding of the 11th session of the Great Mixed Commission of Burkina-Mali cooperation in Ouagadougou. They instructed their foreign ministers to make necessary arrangements for the meeting. The cooperation focuses on areas of shared interest, including the fight against terrorism. This effort seeks to provide common responses to the challenges faced by both countries.
On the confederal and sub-regional levels, the leaders highlighted the need for greater solidarity and a pragmatic, mutually beneficial partnership. They welcomed progress made within the AES, particularly in defense, security, diplomacy, development, health, and education. The leaders also praised the hospitality and security enjoyed by their citizens living in the confederal space. They encouraged Burkinabè and Malian communities to continue cohabiting in a spirit of goodwill.
Captain Ibrahim Traoré expressed gratitude to President Assimi Goïta and the Malian people for the welcome extended to Burkinabè nationals expelled from the Republic of Guinea. The two leaders reviewed several continental and global issues, noting convergence on the matters discussed. Their meeting demonstrated a shared commitment to fostering cooperation and addressing regional challenges.
At the end of his visit, General Assimi Goïta thanked his Burkinabè counterpart, government, and people for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He praised Captain Ibrahim Traoré's vision for the AES and efforts to implement confederal objectives. President Goïta also invited President Traoré to make an official visit to Mali, which was accepted.
The invitation for a visit to Mali was extended during a meeting that showcased strengthened ties between Ouagadougou and Bamako, two founding members of the AES, along with Niger. This visit aims to further solidify cooperation and understanding between the two nations. Details of the visit, including the date, will be determined through diplomatic channels.
The meeting between President Goïta and Captain Traoré reflects a mutual desire to enhance cooperation in various sectors and tackle shared challenges. Their discussions underscored a commitment to fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development within the AES. The strengthened partnership between Burkina Faso and Mali serves as a cornerstone for regional cooperation and progress.
Key points
- The leaders of Burkina Faso and Mali have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on security issues and other areas of shared interest.
- The two countries aim to enhance their partnership within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to address common challenges.
- The leaders have agreed to hold the 11th session of the Great Mixed Commission of Burkina-Mali cooperation in Ouagadougou.
