Maxime Prévot, the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, arrived in Niamey on August 28, following a stop in Ouagadougou. His visit aimed to reinvigorate discussions with Niger and, more broadly, with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
During his diplomatic mission, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot was received in Niamey by Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine on August 28, 2026. This meeting marked the culmination of a visit intended to re-establish lines of communication with Niger and its partners within the Alliance of Sahel States.
The Belgian diplomat’s itinerary included a prior engagement in Ouagadougou on August 27, where he held discussions with Burkinabè President Ibrahim Traoré. This dual visit underscored Belgium’s commitment to engaging with both Burkina Faso and Niger.
Minister Prévot articulated his objective to rebuild connections between the European Union and the AES countries, acknowledging existing differences. He emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue rooted in mutual respect to bridge divides.
Belgium’s historical cooperation with Niger spans several vital sectors, including health, education, and agropastoral development. These key areas continue to form the cornerstone of Belgium’s ongoing engagement in the nation.
This diplomatic strategy is further reinforced by Belgium’s sustained presence in the Central Sahel region, maintaining active diplomatic posts in both Niamey and Ouagadougou.
