Warming ties between Cotonou and Sahel states
Benin’s president Romuald Wadagni continues his West African tour, arriving in Bamako on Tuesday, June 9, for a meeting with Malian leader Assimi Goïta. The visit is part of a regional outreach that started shortly after his inauguration, following earlier stops in Niger and Burkina Faso. It signals a clear intent to restore dialogue with the military-led governments of the Sahel.
New momentum between Bamako and Cotonou
Following their talks, the two heads of state issued a joint statement expressing their commitment to give “new momentum” to relations between Mali and Benin. Discussions centered on strengthening economic, commercial, and cultural cooperation. Romuald Wadagni also extended an invitation to Assimi Goïta for an official visit to Benin, further underscoring the easing of tensions between the two capitals.
Changed tone across the region
Relations between Benin and the AES countries had been strained in recent years, particularly with neighboring Niger after the 2023 coup. Since taking office on May 24, Romuald Wadagni has pursued multiple diplomatic initiatives to re-establish communication with authorities in Bamako, Ouagadougou, and Niamey.
Strategic stakes for West Africa
This tour occurs amid deep divisions between the Economic Community of West African States and the AES nations. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger withdrew from the regional bloc to form their own confederation, arguing that ECOWAS no longer met their sovereignty and security needs. Wadagni’s visit stands as one of the first major diplomatic gestures of his presidency and could help ease tensions across West Africa.
