AES–ECOWAS: a dialogue in Dakar to safeguard trade and mobility
Ministerial delegations from the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met on Saturday 17 October 2026 in Dakar to launch a dialogue on the future of their cooperation. Cross-border trade, transhumance and the movement of people are among the ties that the participants wish to preserve between the peoples of West Africa.
The meeting followed preparatory consultations held on 14 and 16 October in Ouagadougou. It took place in the presence of representatives from the United Nations and the African Union. The Malian delegation was led by the Minister for Malians Abroad, Mossa Ag Attaher.
Preserving ties between communities
The discussions are based on mutual respect, the sovereignty of member states and consideration of the specific characteristics of each organisation. The participants emphasised the importance of the historical, cultural and economic ties that unite the region’s communities.
These ties give concrete substance to the dialogue: the discussions concern cross-border trade, transhumance and human mobility. Security, free movement, economic development and humanitarian aid were also among the topics discussed.
During the ministerial consultation on 16 October in Ouagadougou, the AES had called for the negotiations to take into account the aspirations of the people, particularly regarding the movement of people and goods. This preparatory guidance set out a priority to be upheld, without specifying the terms of future cooperation.
Joint working groups to prepare an agreement
In Dakar, the United Nations and the African Union reaffirmed their willingness to support the dialogue in line with the needs expressed by the parties.
The meeting on 17 October also resulted in the decision to set up joint thematic working groups to negotiate a framework agreement. This step marks the start of the technical preparations for the future partnership; it does not mean that the terms of the agreement have already been agreed.
The conclusions of these groups will be submitted to the ministers at a forthcoming session. The date and venue of this session are to be communicated through diplomatic channels.
