ECOWAS and AES plan new cooperation framework

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Sahel States Confederation (AES) have agreed to develop a framework to organize their relationship after Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger left ECOWAS on 29 January 2025. This was announced during a ministerial meeting in Dakar, Senegal, on 17 October 2026, co-chaired by officials from Senegal and Burkina Faso.

Working groups to draft cooperation agreement

The two organizations will form joint working groups to conduct technical discussions and draft a cooperation framework agreement. The results of these discussions will be presented to ministers at a future meeting, though the date and location are yet to be decided.

Cooperation continues despite political changes

The initiative follows earlier talks in Bamako, Mali, in May 2025, and reflects ongoing economic ties between ECOWAS and the AES. Despite the political split, ECOWAS plans to keep some provisions allowing movement of people and trade with the three Sahel countries, highlighting the importance of maintaining economic links.

Trade remains strong between Sahel and West African countries

Trade data shows significant economic activity between the Sahel countries and ECOWAS. For example, Burkina Faso’s trade with West African countries rose to $2.2 billion in 2025, while Niger’s trade increased to $288 million in the same year. These figures show that trade continues to be a vital link despite the political changes.

Security concerns drive regional collaboration

Security is a major concern for both organizations, as armed groups in the Sahel have caused thousands of deaths and security incidents. Improved coordination between ECOWAS and the AES could help with information sharing, border monitoring, and fighting transnational crime. However, the joint statement did not include specific security plans, leaving the details to be decided later.