Antalya: Officials from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso discussed regional challenges Saturday, including terrorism, political instability, and strained ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) bloc.

According to Anadolu Agency, the "Sahel: The Future of Regional Integration" panel was held at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, featuring Abdoulaye Diop, Mali's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Bakary Yaou Sangare, Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation and Nigerians Abroad, and Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, Burkina Faso's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabes Abroad.

The panel addressed the existential crisis facing the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), as highlighted by Diop, who stressed the importance of fighting terrorism and preventing military coups. He emphasized the need for regional integration and criticized Western nations for imposing embargoes that hinder access to military equipment. Diop noted a shift towards countries like Trkiye, China, and Russia to procure necessary resources, criticizing the UN for inaction in Mali.

Sangare from Niger accused ECOWAS of deviating from its founding principles and focusing on issues unrelated to the member states' well-being, which prompted their decision to leave. He noted that the withdrawal of foreign military forces, such as the French, disrupted funding channels for terror groups, resulting in fewer attacks and casualties. Sangare praised Trkiye's role in supporting their fight against terrorism.

Traore from Burkina Faso shared positive developments, stating that the country has regained 71% of its territory from terror groups. He cited development projects, including over five new factories, as evidence of improving security. Traore emphasized that collaboration with Trkiye extends beyond military affairs to all areas of development among Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.