Niger and Mali presidents meet to boost Sahel security pact
Presidents Tiani and Goïta reaffirmed commitment to the Confederation of Sahel States and intensified fight against terrorism.
Niger's President Abdourahamane Tiani and Mali's President Assimi Goïta met in Niamey on Thursday, November 5, 2026, to discuss security challenges within the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The leaders co-chaired an expanded working session involving delegations from both countries, focusing on counter-terrorism efforts and strengthening the AES.
Niger's Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangaré stated the visit aimed to consolidate existing ties and address shared challenges. He reported that discussions covered advancements in defense, diplomacy, and development, with both presidents expressing satisfaction with the AES Unified Force's successes against terrorism and coordinated diplomatic actions. They also reviewed socio-economic situations and ongoing programs for free movement of people and goods, transport infrastructure, and resource exploitation.
The presidents condemned destabilization attempts by mercenaries and their foreign state sponsors, while acknowledging the resilience of Sahel populations. They reiterated their determination to eradicate terrorism and agreed to continue coordinating diplomatic and economic integration efforts. President Goïta extended an invitation to President Tiani for an official visit to Mali at a later date.
Why it mattersThe presidents of Niger and Mali met to strengthen their security pact and address terrorism, impacting the stability and development of the Sahel region.