Bamako Hosts Key Week for Confederation of Sahel States (AES) Implementation

Niamey, December 15, 2025 - From December 15 to 23, Bamako is hosting a series of decisive meetings for the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The schedule includes the second session of the College of Heads of State on December 22-23, preceded by the first confederation session of the Council of Ministers on December 20-21, along with meetings of senior officials from the AES member countries.

The meeting of senior officials began on Monday, December 15, under the chairmanship of His Excellency Mr. Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The session saw the participation of experts in Defense and Security, Diplomacy, and Development from the three member states.

Speeches were delivered by heads of delegation from Burkina Faso, represented by Ambassador Herman Toe, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; from Niger, represented by Ambassador Adami Illo, President of the National Committee responsible for implementing the AES; and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mali, who officially opened the meeting.

Ahead of the Council of Ministers session, the senior officials’ meetings serve as a forum to discuss and review strategic documents, including the draft report on Year 1 Roadmap implementation, the draft report on AES-ECOWAS discussions, and draft legal instruments related to the operationalization of the AES Confederation.