AES: A Union for Sovereign Africa
President Ibrahim Traoré emphasized that the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) unites Africans striving for sovereignty and independence. In his New Year address, Traoré highlighted the AES’s commitment to freedom, self-determination, and development. He reiterated the alliance’s role in resisting external influences on the continent.
A Model for Diplomacy and Security
Traoré outlined AES as a template for African unity, focusing on diplomacy, defense, security, and sustainable development. He stated that the coalition aims to establish itself as a credible alternative to existing regional frameworks, asserting the need for a collective response to persistent challenges like insecurity and foreign subversion.
Departure from ECOWAS: A Stand for Independence
Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso remain firm in their decision to exit ECOWAS by January 2025, rejecting delay. AES leaders reject the proposed six-month postponement, calling it an external attempt to destabilize their sovereign agenda. They emphasize their commitment to pursuing a new course for the region, free from external influence.
Ensuring Connectivity Amidst Transition
Despite their impending exit, the AES member states have pledged to keep their borders visa-free for ECOWAS citizens, preserving the spirit of regional connectivity. This move seeks to minimize disruptions to economic activities and the freedom of movement for over 400 million people within the bloc’s shared market.
Strained Relations with ECOWAS
Tensions between ECOWAS and the AES countries have escalated since a series of military takeovers in the Sahel region. AES nations have accused ECOWAS of failing to address critical security concerns and imposing severe sanctions. The AES views its formation as a necessary step toward reclaiming control over internal affairs and rejecting perceived external domination.
A Vision of African Solidarity
For Traoré, the AES embodies a vision of an Africa united against colonial legacies and external pressures. He called on other African nations to join the alliance, framing it as a continental movement dedicated to freedom and sovereignty. As the AES grows, it aspires to redefine Africa’s role on the global stage while addressing the unique challenges facing the Sahel region.
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