Togo's government has expressed its support for Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, emphasizing their importance to regional security. According to Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, these three countries, which form the Alliance des États du Sahel (AES), are essential actors in maintaining stability in the region. In an interview with France 24 on September 23, 2026, Dussey stated that isolating them is not an effective response to the security threats they face.
Dussey's comments were made on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He stressed that the security situation in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger directly affects their neighboring countries, particularly those in the Gulf of Guinea region. The Togolese government's stance is that the security of these three countries is linked to that of their neighbors, and that supporting them is crucial to maintaining regional stability.
The Togolese president, Faure Gnassingbé, has chosen to maintain dialogue with the three AES countries despite tensions with several regional countries. Dussey defended this position, citing the recent evolution of relations between AES and certain countries in the region, which confirms the need to prioritize dialogue. Several countries that had previously condemned the three AES countries are now seeking to reestablish relations with them.
According to Dussey, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger serve as a "security dike" for coastal countries. He believes that their resistance to jihadist groups can help prevent the spread of threats to coastal states. Dussey emphasized that supporting these three countries is not only about helping them but also about protecting countries further south.
Togo has taken concrete steps to strengthen its relations with AES countries. In April 2026, Lomé hosted a meeting of foreign ministers from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, along with representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Dussey presented Togo as a "bridge between AES and ECOWAS." Later that year, Togo adopted a Sahel strategy covering 2026-2028, which includes developing dialogue with Sahelian countries and enhancing cooperation on security and counter-terrorism.
The Togolese government's approach is driven by a desire to address the security challenges facing the region. In July 2026, Dussey was decorated in Burkina Faso in recognition of the cooperation between the two countries on peace, security, and regional integration. This move underscores Togo's commitment to strengthening its ties with AES countries.
Togo's position on AES reflects its concern about the broader implications of the security situation in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The government believes that the stability of West Africa is at stake and that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the region's security challenges. By supporting AES countries, Togo aims to contribute to the stability of the region and prevent the spread of security threats.
Key points
- Togo views Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger as crucial to regional security
- The countries form a "security dike" against jihadist threats
- Togo has strengthened its relations with AES countries through diplomatic efforts and cooperation agreements
