On Friday, September 26, 2026, Mali's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdoulaye Diop, participated in the 8th ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends for the Defense of the UN Charter at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The meeting took place amidst a complex international landscape marked by multiple areas of tension. Diop emphasized that nearly every region of the world is affected by these crises, including the Sahel.
In his address, Diop highlighted that the various security crises faced globally share a common thread: they originated and progressed due to the disregard for the UN Charter. He pointed out that repeated violations of the charter, threats or use of force, and imposition of unilateral coercive measures hinder international peace and security, as well as the well-being of populations. The Malian minister stressed that all UN member states must redouble their efforts to counter this dangerous trend of confrontation and disregard for international law.
Diop emphasized the importance of the Group of Friends in defending the UN Charter, which is the only credible guarantee of sovereign equality and territorial integrity of states, peaceful settlement of disputes, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. He noted that the Sahel region is a victim of actions contrary to the UN Charter, perpetrated by countries nostalgic for colonial empires and driven by a desire for domination.
The minister highlighted the efforts of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, to coordinate a fight against terrorism in the region. He expressed satisfaction with significant successes achieved by the three countries' armies against terrorist groups, as well as progress in development and diplomacy. Diop also acknowledged the valuable cooperation of Russia with Mali and the Sahel countries.
Diop called for greater solidarity from UN member states with the Sahel region and condemned state sponsors of terrorism and disinformation campaigns. He reaffirmed Mali's support for the Palestinian cause and expressed concern over the situation in the Middle East. The minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity among members of the Group of Friends in the face of existential challenges.
The meeting of the Group of Friends for the Defense of the UN Charter is a crucial platform for promoting respect for the UN Charter and international law. Mali's participation in the meeting reflects the country's commitment to upholding the principles of the charter and promoting peace and security globally. Diop's address highlighted the need for collective action to address the complex challenges facing the world.
The international community faces significant challenges in maintaining peace and security, particularly in regions such as the Sahel. Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop has called for increased cooperation and solidarity to address these challenges. The outcome of the meeting and the implementation of its decisions will be closely watched by the international community.
Key points
- Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop champions the UN Charter at a New York meeting.
- The Sahel region faces significant security challenges, including terrorism.
- Mali calls for greater solidarity from UN member states with the Sahel region.
