The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, and the Confederation of Sahel States, comprising Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, have agreed to negotiate a formal cooperation deal, in a move towards rebuilding ties following the countries’ withdrawal from the regional bloc.
The agreement was reached at a ministerial meeting in Dakar, Senegal, on October 17, where both sides agreed to establish joint working groups to explore areas of mutual interest and develop a framework for cooperation.
The working groups are expected to submit their recommendations to ministers for consideration at a subsequent meeting, although no date has been announced.
Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS in January 2024 amid disagreements over military rule, sanctions and the transition to civilian government. Their exit formally took effect on January 29, 2025.
Despite the split, economic ties remain crucial. The three landlocked Sahel countries depend on neighbouring states for access to seaports and international markets, while coastal economies maintain strong commercial links with the region.
Both sides say future relations should be based on good neighbourliness, respect for sovereignty and the welfare of their populations.
However, the meeting did not produce a new trade agreement or change existing cross-border arrangements. Instead, it established a process for further negotiations.
The latest engagement follows consultations in Bamako, Mali, in May 2025, as both blocs seek to define their relationship after the withdrawal.
The next phase will depend on the recommendations of the joint working groups and the willingness of both sides to translate diplomatic engagement into a formal cooperation agreement.
