Mali’s Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohammedine, has accepted an official invitation from Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya to visit Turkey in March.
The invitation was presented by Turkish Ambassador to Mali, Efe Ceylan, during a meeting on February 24, 2024.
Discussions between Mohammedine and Ceylan centered on strengthening cooperation between Mali and Turkey, particularly in defense and security. Both parties emphasized the need for increased collaboration to address shared security challenges.
This cooperation has already resulted in Mali’s acquisition of Turkish military drones. In December 2024, Bayraktar Akıncı drones, manufactured by Baykar, were delivered to the Malian armed forces, supplementing a previous order for Bayraktar TB2 drones. The Bayraktar Akıncı is a high-altitude, long-endurance combat drone with a 1,500 kg payload capacity and a 25-hour flight endurance, significantly enhancing Mali’s surveillance and combat capabilities.
Beyond military cooperation, trade between the two countries has also expanded to include education, commerce, and infrastructure. In 2022, bilateral trade reached $165 million, a substantial increase from $5 million in 2003. Turkish exports to Mali totaled $109 million, while Malian imports reached $56 million.
In education, the Turkey Maarif Foundation operates several institutions in Mali, providing education to approximately 3,500 students, further strengthening cultural and educational ties.
The upcoming visit of Minister Mohammedine to Turkey reflects the mutual desire of both nations to deepen their strategic partnership across key sectors vital for their development and security.
MD/ac/fss/abj/APA