The talks mark a continuation of engagement between the two sides following the three countries’ withdrawal from ECOWAS amid tensions over military coups and the bloc’s response. In a joint statement, both parties welcomed the “spirit of fraternity, mutual respect and openness” that characterised the discussions, while emphasising the importance of good neighbourly relations and respect for national sovereignty.
Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore, led the AES delegation, while Senegal’s Foreign Minister, Cheikh Niang, headed the ECOWAS team. The AES was established by the military-led governments of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger before their departure from the regional bloc.
Since taking power, the three countries have scaled back relations with France, their former colonial ruler, while deepening ties with Russia. They have also criticised coastal West African countries, including Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, over what they perceive as close relations with Paris.
In June 2025, Nigeria’s then Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, expressed optimism that the three countries could eventually rejoin ECOWAS. However, the latest agreement focuses on establishing a framework for cooperation and does not signal their return to the regional bloc.
