Morocco strengthens ties with Sahel nations through ministerial meeting

King Mohammed VI welcomed the foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger at the Royal Palace in Rabat on Monday. This significant gathering emphasized Morocco’s commitment to fostering robust partnerships in the Sahel region.

The ministers included Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso; Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Mali; and Bakary Yaou Sangare, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Niger’s transitional government. Their visit highlighted the enduring relations Morocco shares with these three Sahel countries, rooted in mutual respect and active solidarity.

During their meeting, the ministers conveyed messages of gratitude from their respective Heads of State, acknowledging King Mohammed VI’s unwavering attention to the Sahel’s needs and aspirations. They praised the King’s initiative to provide Atlantic access to Sahel countries, viewing it as a pivotal move toward enhancing economic opportunities and fostering regional integration.

The ministers expressed strong support for this initiative and committed to collaborating on its swift implementation. They also provided updates on the development of the Alliance of Sahel States, outlining ongoing efforts to strengthen the alliance’s institutional and operational frameworks, positioning it as a vital platform for cooperation among the three nations.

This meeting reaffirmed Morocco’s role as a trusted partner in the region, underscoring a shared determination to pursue deeper integration and sustainable development across the Sahel. Earlier this week, Niger’s Foreign Minister described Morocco as an “essential partner” for Sahel countries during discussions at the Crans Montana Forum in Casablanca. He highlighted the significance of the King’s initiative in granting Sahel nations access to the Atlantic, particularly for the region’s landlocked countries. Mali’s Foreign Minister echoed this sentiment, commending Morocco’s “constructive and respectful approach” in its relations with African partners, especially through the Royal Atlantic Initiative.