Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional ties through ongoing diplomatic discussions between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
According to the statement issued by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Abuja on Saturday, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, is leading Nigerian delegation to the first round of discussions in Dakar, Senegal.
The meeting, which began on Oct. 16, aims to restore regional cohesion and preserve the gains of West African integration.
The statement stated that the discussions seek to align ECOWAS member states’ strategic positions ahead of structured engagements with the AES at ministerial and technical levels.
“The talks are expected to produce agreement on a draft General Framework Agreement between ECOWAS and AES member states.
“The proposed agreement is expected to pave the way for further engagement at the ECOWAS Summit scheduled for December in Abuja,” it said.
The statement said that Nigeria’s participation underscored its commitment to regional integration, peace and security.
It added that Nigeria was determined to ensure the withdrawal of AES member states did not undermine longstanding cultural and geographical ties among West African countries.
GIK/APA