The warming ties between Cotonou and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) are becoming more evident. On Tuesday, June 9, Bénin’s President Romuald Wadagni traveled to Bamako for a meeting with Malian leader Assimi Goïta, as part of a regional tour launched shortly after his inauguration.

Following earlier visits to Niger and Burkina Faso, this stop in Mali underscores the new Béninese president’s commitment to reopening dialogue with the Sahel’s military-led governments.

A “fresh start” between Bamako and Cotonou

After their talks, the two heads of state issued a joint statement expressing their determination to “breathe new life” into Mali-Bénin relations.

Discussions focused on strengthening economic, trade, and cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Wadagni also extended an invitation to Goïta for an official visit to Bénin, another sign of the easing tensions between the two capitals.

A shift in tone across the region

Relations between Bénin and AES member states were severely strained in recent years, particularly with neighboring Niger following the 2023 coup.

Since taking office on May 24, Romuald Wadagni has launched numerous diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring communication with the authorities in Bamako, Ouagadougou, and Niamey.

A strategic stake for West Africa

This tour comes amid deep regional divisions between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the AES countries.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger withdrew from the regional bloc to form their own confederation, arguing that ECOWAS no longer adequately addressed their sovereignty and security concerns.

Wadagni’s journey thus stands as one of the first major diplomatic moves of his tenure and may help reduce tensions across West Africa.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst