On October 16, Mali's Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Moustaph Traoré, attended the reception offered by the chargé d'affaires of the Spanish Embassy in Mali to celebrate Spain's National Day. During the event, Ambassador Traoré emphasized the convergences between Mali and Spain on international issues, security, culture, and development. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two countries.
Ambassador Traoré noted that Mali and Spain share common views on several major international issues, including respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, combating terrorism, and seeking peaceful and sustainable solutions to crises. He also praised Spain's cooperation with Mali through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), which has been a key partner in Mali's development.
The ambassador highlighted the significant presence of the Malian community in Spain, making it the second country in Europe with the largest Malian population. This presence represents a human, cultural, and economic richness, and a valuable link between the two peoples. He welcomed the Spanish authorities' vision of migration, which considers its various dimensions and opportunities for development, investment, and rapprochement between peoples.
Culture occupies a special place in Mali-Spain cooperation, particularly with the launch of the "Rethinking the National Museum of Mali" project in partnership with Spain. This initiative aims to modernize and valorize Mali's heritage, making the National Museum a living, accessible space for young generations. The opening of a Spanish language center in Bamako and the organization of the "Hola Bamako" festival also demonstrate the vitality of cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Ambassador Traoré also recalled the historical connections between Mali and Spain, dating back to the 14th century with the transatlantic expedition of Emperor Aboubakari II. He emphasized that today, it is the human links, cooperation, and exchanges that give depth to the friendship between the two countries. The ambassador expressed his gratitude to the Spanish people and government for their support and cooperation.
The cooperation between Mali and Spain has progressively diversified and enriched, particularly in the areas of security and development. Both countries face challenges related to terrorism and separatism, which has created a mutual understanding and a willingness to share experiences. The ambassador stressed the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and sharing experiences in the face of contemporary challenges.
In conclusion, Ambassador Traoré reiterated Mali's commitment to strengthening its cooperation with Spain, particularly in the areas of culture, security, and development. He expressed his hope that the two countries would continue to work together to promote peace, prosperity, and development. The celebration of Spain's National Day was an opportunity for Mali to reaffirm its friendship and cooperation with Spain.
Key points
- Mali and Spain share common views on international issues, including respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and combating terrorism.
