Senegal Backs Mali Against Terrorism

Senegal has pledged continued support for Mali’s fight against terrorism following talks between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Malian leader General Assimi Goïta in Bamako.

The visit marked Faye’s first trip to Mali since assuming the rotating chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Although he now heads the regional bloc, the discussions were held on a bilateral basis rather than as an official ECOWAS mission.

During the meeting, Faye condemned the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Mali, describing them as “heinous, cowardly and barbaric.” He reaffirmed Senegal’s commitment to supporting its neighbour in confronting security threats affecting both countries and the wider Sahel region.

“Senegal stands ready to support Mali through this ordeal so that together we may confront the challenges and threats to peace and stability across the region,” Faye said.

Mali has witnessed a rise in attacks in recent months by Tuareg separatist groups and militants linked to Al-Qaeda, adding to long-standing security challenges across the country. The violence has continued despite ongoing military operations and efforts by the transitional government to strengthen security partnerships.

General Goïta did not make a public statement following the meeting.

Relations between Mali and ECOWAS have remained strained since Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger formally withdrew from the regional bloc in January 2025 to establish the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Under Goïta’s military-led administration, Mali has also ended military cooperation with France while expanding security partnerships with other international allies. No new bilateral security agreements were announced during Faye’s visit.

SOURCE: AFP