AES and Russia strengthen short-term diplomatic and security cooperation
In Niamey, Niger’s capital, the second round of high-level consultations between the foreign ministers of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and Russia’s top diplomat concluded on July 8, marking another milestone in their evolving partnership.
The gathering brought together Niger’s Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangaré, Mali’s Abdoulaye Diop, Burkina Faso’s Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, and Russia’s Sergei Lavrov. The discussions centered on deepening collaboration across defense, economic development, and regional security.
Mali’s Diop highlighted the “fruitful and consistent exchanges” between the AES and Moscow, emphasizing breakthroughs in both military cooperation and economic integration. He noted that these efforts align with a shared vision for sustainable growth and collective stability.
The ministers underscored the urgent need to bolster joint counterterrorism initiatives, calling for expanded military support to strengthen the operational readiness of the AES Joint Force. They also reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Confederation’s second-year roadmap, with a focus on economic resilience and infrastructure development.
Lavrov, addressing the session, reaffirmed Russia’s “unwavering commitment” to a mutually beneficial partnership with the AES. He emphasized Moscow’s readiness to enhance security measures across the Sahel while advancing initiatives for long-term prosperity, including healthcare, education, and local governance improvements.
This meeting follows the inaugural AES-Russia consultations held in Moscow in April 2025, part of Lavrov’s recent diplomatic outreach across Africa.
