The ministers of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) convened in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on November 11-12, 2026, for an extraordinary session to review the implementation of their two-year roadmap. The meeting, chaired by Burkinabè Minister of State for War and Patriotic Defense Célestin Simporé, focused on the security situation, expulsions of African nationals by Guinea, and relations with the European Union. The session aimed to assess progress made since the roadmap's adoption in February 2026.
The delegations from Mali and Niger were led by Minister of State for Economy and Finance Alousséni Sanou and Minister of State for National Defense General Salifou Mody, respectively. Preceding the ministerial meeting, high-ranking officials from the three pillars of the AES – Defense and Security, Diplomacy, and Development – held a preparatory meeting. The ministers acknowledged advancements in implementing the roadmap and reaffirmed their commitment to the integration process initiated by the three member states' heads of state.
The situation of African nationals expelled from Guinea was also addressed, with ministers denouncing the "massive and uncoordinated" expulsions. The Burkinabè delegation head expressed gratitude to Malian authorities for accommodating Burkinabè nationals deported from Guinea. On security, the ministers condemned ongoing terrorist attacks affecting AES member states, paying tribute to victims and praising defense and security forces, as well as the resilience of local populations.
The ministers also condemned European Union interference in African states' internal affairs. They extended special thanks to Burkinabè President Captain Ibrahim Traoré, current AES chair, for his engagement in building a shared space of security, solidarity, and prosperity alongside his Malian and Nigerien counterparts. This move underscores the AES's commitment to fostering cooperation and addressing regional challenges collectively.
Prior to the session, Burkinabè and Malian delegations presented condolences to Nigerien President General Abdourahamane Tiani following the death of his father. This extraordinary council meeting is part of the AES's follow-up on its two-year roadmap, which the three member states aim to implement through joint actions in security, diplomacy, and development.
Key areas of focus for the AES include enhancing regional security cooperation, promoting economic integration, and fostering diplomatic collaboration. The ministers' discussions reflect the AES's determination to address shared challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and development in the Sahel region. By working together, the member states seek to create a more stable and prosperous environment for their citizens.
The AES's efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and address common challenges are ongoing. As the alliance continues to implement its roadmap, it is likely to face various hurdles and opportunities. The commitment of member states to their shared goals and their willingness to work together will be crucial in determining the AES's success in promoting peace, security, and development in the Sahel region.
Key points
- The AES ministers' meeting in Ouagadougou focused on reviewing progress on their two-year roadmap and addressing regional challenges such as security, expulsions, and EU interference.
