ECOWAS, Sahel States Agree on New Framework for Regional Cooperation

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have agreed to establish joint working groups to develop a cooperation framework aimed at guiding relations between the two regional blocs.

The agreement followed a ministerial meeting in Dakar, Senegal, marking a significant step in efforts to rebuild diplomatic engagement after Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger formally withdrew from ECOWAS in January 2025.

The discussions are intended to establish a structured basis for cooperation despite continuing political differences between the two sides. According to the joint communiqué, the proposed framework will provide direction for future engagement and help both organisations address issues of shared regional interest.

The three Sahelian countries formed the AES as an alternative regional alliance after their departure from ECOWAS, which had maintained that dialogue should remain open despite the withdrawal.

The separation raised concerns about the future of regional integration, particularly in areas such as cross-border trade, the movement of people, security cooperation and economic relations. These issues remain important because the countries share geographical, commercial and historical ties with the wider West African region.

ECOWAS had previously announced transitional arrangements to reduce disruption to citizens and businesses, including provisions concerning travel documents, trade and the movement of people.

The establishment of joint working groups offers an opportunity for both sides to address outstanding issues through diplomatic and technical discussions. However, the agreement to develop a framework does not, by itself, resolve the political differences that led to the withdrawal of the three countries.

The effectiveness of the initiative will depend on the scope of the eventual agreement, the implementation of commitments and the willingness of both parties to sustain constructive engagement.

For West Africa, maintaining practical cooperation between ECOWAS and the AES could prove important for regional stability, economic connectivity and the management of shared security challenges, even as the two organisations retain their separate institutional arrangements.

ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States agree to establish joint working groups to develop a cooperation framework following renewed diplomatic talks in Dakar.