Mali, Algeria agree on regional security partnership

Mali and Algeria have agreed to partner on regional security, cementing diplomatic cooperation as Algeria seeks to rebuild its influence in the Sahel region.

Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb visited Bamako on Monday, September 14, for talks with his Malian counterpart, Abdoulaye Maiga. It was the first such visit since the two countries restored ties in July.

The two neighbours reopened their airspace to each other and agreed to resume diplomatic missions after their suspension in April 2025. The suspension followed a dispute over a drone crash in a border area.

“We will strengthen our joint efforts for greater security, stability, development, and prosperity,” Ghrieb said.

Mali’s relationship with Algeria has shifted as the military government in Bamako has deepened ties with Moscow. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso severed ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after recent coups. The three states have also seen relations with Paris deteriorate, leading to closer cooperation with Russia.

Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga visited Algeria in August and met President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Following that meeting, Maiga emphasised the need for both countries to continue strengthening bilateral ties.

Ghrieb also met with Malian President Assimi Goita during his visit.

The renewed partnership is seen as an effort by Algeria to counter Russian influence in the Sahel and reassert its role as a regional power.

Source: AFP