High-level officials from Mali and the United Kingdom recently met in Bamako to discuss strengthening their bilateral cooperation.
The talks focused on aligning Mali’s national priorities with the UK’s new strategy for Africa, with the shared goal of building a lasting and productive partnership.
The meeting, co-chaired by Ambassador Sekou dit Gaoussou Cisse of Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ade Onitolo, the UK’s Director of Development for the Sahel, centered on linking Mali’s Vision 2063 with the UK’s White Paper on International Development. Key areas of focus included sustainable growth, combating climate change, and social inclusivity.
According to British government data, total trade between the two nations reached £52 million in the year ending March 2025. British exports to Mali accounted for £49 million, while imports from Mali were around £3 million, resulting in a trade surplus for the UK.
At the conclusion of the discussions, both parties praised the quality of their relationship and committed to continuing their dialogue. They agreed to work together to improve the effectiveness of their cooperation, aiming to deliver tangible, “win-win” benefits for the people of Mali.
MD/Sf/fss/abj/APA