Malian Minister Abdoulaye Diop held a videoconference meeting with ambassadors and consuls general to better harmonize Mali’s diplomatic actions.
Mali’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation., Abdoulaye Diop, held a videoconference with Mali’s ambassadors and consuls general on Monday, August 5, 2024.
The meeting was part of the regular exchanges between the heads of diplomatic missions and consular posts aimed at strengthening the coordination and cohesion of Mali’s diplomatic action.
A number of important issues were on the agenda of this videoconference. The recent creation of the Confederation of Sahel States, which brings together Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, was one of the focal points of the discussions. This new entity aims at closer coordination of diplomatic actions and greater synergy between the three member countries.
The Minister also announced the forthcoming Ambassadors’ Conference, stressing that this event will be an opportunity to “redirect diplomatic priorities and remobilize Malian diplomatic actors to face new challenges”.
Abdoulaye Diop also confirmed Mali’s decision to sever diplomatic relations with Ukraine, which has been accused of involvement in terrorist activities on Malian territory.
The minister reiterated that the aspirations of the Malian people remain at the heart of the transitional authorities’ concerns. “The goal is to build a Mali that is dignified, open, at peace and focused on shared prosperity within the framework of the new confederation,” he said.
Mr. Diop also noted the high expectations placed on an effective diplomacy capable of adapting to current challenges. “I call on our ambassadors and consuls general to be dedicated and constantly vigilant so that Mali can shine on the international stage,” he said.
By withdrawing from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with Niger and Burkina Faso and creating the Confederation of Sahel States, Mali is reaffirming its determination to redefine its geopolitical position.
The summit of July 6, 2024 was decisive for the creation of this confederation, confirmed by founding texts that emphasize cooperation and solidarity between the three Sahelian countries.
Despite the willingness of ECOWAS leaders to reintegrate ESA member countries, the latter seem determined to turn the page on the organization.
MD/ac/sf/lb/GIK/APA