Mali summit: launching the AES joint military force in Bamako

The nations of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which comprise the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) confederation, are currently led by military administrations that assumed power through coups between 2020 and 2023. These countries have adopted a staunchly sovereignist stance, moving away from traditional Western alliances.

On Monday, the head of the Mali junta, Assimi Goïta, hosted his counterpart from Niger, General Abdourahamane Tiani, in Bamako. Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the leader of Burkina Faso, is expected to arrive on Tuesday for the second day of the high-level meeting.

Establishing a collective security response

A central focus for the three leaders is the development of a unified military force intended to halt the expansion of jihadist movements across their territories. Over the weekend, Assimi Goïta presented a formal standard to the AES Unified Force (FU-AES), which authorities described as the official commencement of this strategic multinational entity.

While this ceremony marks a significant milestone, it remains largely symbolic for the moment. No specific timeline has been provided for when this joint force will begin active field operations.

Persistent security challenges in the Sahel

For more than a decade, these three countries have been battling insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Recently, extremist groups have shifted their focus toward southern Mali, implementing a strategy designed to cripple the economy of the landlocked nation.

In Burkina Faso and Niger, the situation remains critical as jihadist factions continue to defy central governance, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. A spokesperson from the Mali Ministry of Defense stated that each country has committed the necessary troops and equipment to ensure they can operate effectively together on the ground.

New institutions and diplomatic shifts

Beyond military cooperation, Assimi Goïta and Abdourahamane Tiani inaugurated the new offices of “Television AES” on Monday, though its broadcasting start date is yet to be confirmed. The summit is also expected to ratify the creation of a shared investment bank, which will be based in Bamako.

By distancing themselves from France and the ECOWAS regional bloc, the AES member states are actively seeking new partnerships, notably strengthening their cooperation with Russia.