Burkina Faso and Algeria Enhance Ties to Fight Terrorism
On December 14, 2024, Burkina Faso and Algeria reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the growing threat of terrorism in the Sahel region. During a meeting between Burkina Faso’s Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and Algeria’s outgoing Ambassador, Selma Mansouri, both parties underscored the importance of mutual cooperation in addressing security challenges. The discussions focused not only on military collaboration but also on enhancing bilateral ties in areas such as education, humanitarian aid, and economic development.
Strengthening Regional Security Cooperation
Algeria’s involvement in supporting Burkina Faso’s security efforts is pivotal as both countries face increasing terrorist activity. Burkina Faso, which has been battling insurgents linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, has emphasized the need for stronger regional partnerships. The diplomatic meeting between Mansouri and Traoré highlighted their shared goals of ensuring regional stability, with Mansouri reiterating Algeria’s readiness to assist in combating terrorism through joint military operations and other strategic support.
Deepening Diplomatic and Socio-Economic Engagement
Beyond military collaboration, the two nations also agreed to explore deeper cooperation in socio-economic and educational fields. Algeria expressed a strong desire to assist Burkina Faso in its development goals, including improving its educational system and supporting its humanitarian initiatives. Both countries acknowledged the importance of building a comprehensive partnership that not only addresses security concerns but also fosters broader socio-economic progress within the Sahel region.
Shared Challenges in the Sahel Region
The meeting comes at a critical time for Burkina Faso, which is grappling with escalating terrorist activity, a challenge it shares with neighboring Mali and Niger. The recent surge in insecurity has prompted Burkina Faso to align more closely with its regional neighbors, including Mali and Niger, through the formation of the “Alliance of Sahel States” in July 2024. This alliance aims to strengthen mutual defense mechanisms and address the ongoing threats posed by extremist groups operating across the Sahel.
Algeria’s Role in Regional Stability
Algeria’s support is seen as a cornerstone of Burkina Faso’s broader strategy to stabilize the region. As part of this strategy, Burkina Faso has distanced itself from traditional regional blocs such as ECOWAS, citing dissatisfaction with foreign interference and ineffective responses to terrorism. Algeria’s unwavering commitment to assisting Burkina Faso reflects its broader foreign policy goals of maintaining stability and combating terrorism in the Sahel. Both nations view their partnership as essential in the fight against extremist movements that threaten their sovereignty.
Mansouri’s Diplomatic Legacy in the Sahel
Selma Mansouri, who has played a pivotal role in fostering Algeria’s diplomatic relations with Sahelian nations, will soon be transitioning to a new role as Secretary of State for Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. Her tenure as Algeria’s ambassador to Burkina Faso, along with her previous diplomatic missions in Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Chad, underscores her deep engagement with regional issues. Her efforts in strengthening bilateral relations between Algeria and Burkina Faso are seen as a testament to Algeria’s long-term commitment to regional peace and stability.
As both countries continue to strengthen their partnership, the collaboration between Algeria and Burkina Faso is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of security and stability in the Sahel region. With shared challenges ahead, the two nations remain committed to combating terrorism through united efforts and strategic cooperation.
Follow us on Socials: