Senegal’s PM Makes First Visit to Mali Since Election

Senegal’s Prime Minister made his first official visit to Mali since his election, marking a significant step in strengthening diplomatic relations between the two neighboring West African countries. The visit focused on enhancing cooperation and regional stability.

The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, paid his inaugural visit to Mali following the victory of his political party in the presidential elections held in March 2024.

Senegal is leading diplomatic efforts to persuade junta-ruled Mali to rejoin the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a 15-nation regional bloc established in 1975, and Sonko’s visit forms an integral part of this initiative.

Due to the military coups that caused rifts with their fellow West African nations, ECOWAS has been abandoned by Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.

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After meeting with Colonel Assimi Goita, the interim president of Mali, Sonko urged West African nations to overcome their differences and work towards reestablishing “a united Malian empire spanning from here all the way to Senegal, Ghana and beyond.”

During January, the juntas of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso expressed that ECOWAS had imposed “illegitimate, inhumane and irresponsible” sanctions instead of aiding their countries fight against security threats after they staged coups to assume control. The juntas believed that these acts were necessary for them to take charge of their own destiny.

ECOWAS is at the forefront of initiatives to restore civilian rule in countries affected by coups. By imposing sanctions and disregarding extended transitional schedules, it aims to persuade juntas into adopting its position.

Never before in the bloc’s almost 50-year history had its members withdrawn like this.

The Alliance of Sahel States was established by the three nations as an alternative union.

President Basirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, who paid a visit to Mali in May, has been given the daunting duty of bringing back together a regional alliance that has lost some strength.