The leader of Niger's rebel-formed National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has issued an authorization allowing the defense and security forces of Burkina Faso and Mali to enter Niger's territory in the event of an attack, as reported by the Nigerian Press Agency (NPA).
Niger's transitional government head, Ali Lamine Zeine, held meetings in Niamey on August 24 with ministerial delegations from Mali and Burkina Faso. The Mali delegation included Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Abdoulaye Diop and Minister of Economy and Finance Alousseni Sanou, while Burkina Faso was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad Olivia Ragnaghnewende Rouamba, along with Minister Delegate to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré.
During the meetings, the delegations of Mali and Burkina Faso expressed their willingness to collaborate with Niger in the fight against terrorism and extremism. In a joint communiqué, the three countries reaffirmed their "dedication to join forces to counter these ongoing issues in the Sahel region that have impeded the effective execution of development initiatives."
Highlighting the importance of enhanced cooperation, intelligence sharing, and coordinated operations, the representatives of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger emphasized their collective aim to counter the activities of terrorist groups more effectively. They also committed to providing mutual defense capabilities and assistance in the event of aggression or terrorist attacks.
To facilitate coordinated actions and responses to various situations and challenges, the three nations decided to establish a consultative body. The transitional government of Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigerians Abroad Bakary Yau Sangare has received invitations to visit Burkina Faso and Mali, with specific visit dates to be arranged through diplomatic channels.
In late July, Burkina Faso and Mali jointly declared that any military intervention in Niger would be regarded as an act of war against them. They pledged to undertake self-defense measures in support of Niger's armed forces and its people.
GSV "Russia - Islamic world"
Photo: Georgia National Guard/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on materials from TASS