ECOWAS has urged member states to maintain ties with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger despite their withdrawal. The organization will continue to recognize their citizens’ passports, facilitate trade, and uphold rights to movement. A structure has been set for future engagement discussions, aiming to ensure stability and cooperation during this transition.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has emphasized the importance of maintaining bilateral relations with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, despite their formal withdrawal from the regional organization. The decision, effective January 29, 2024, reflects a commitment to regional solidarity and prioritizes the interests of the citizens in these nations.

ECOWAS has called upon all member states to recognize the national passports and identity cards of citizens from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger that bear the ECOWAS logo. This measure will remain in effect until further notice. Additionally, goods and services from these countries will continue to be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy, facilitating trade and economic cooperation.

Citizens from the affected nations will retain their rights to visa-free movement, residency, and establishment in accordance with ECOWAS protocols during this transition. Moreover, member states are encouraged to provide full support to ECOWAS officials representing the three countries.

To ensure clarity during this period, ECOWAS has established a structure for dialogue regarding the future engagement of these nations. This initiative aims to prevent confusion that may disrupt the daily lives and businesses within the region.

On December 15, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Alieu Touray, confirmed the decision of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to withdraw from the organization. He indicated that their formal exit will take place between January 29, 2025, and July 29, 2025, which will allow time for potential mediation or diplomatic efforts to facilitate a more amicable transition.

The article discusses the recent developments surrounding the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This situation has significant implications for regional cooperation and economic relations. ECOWAS’s approach seeks to maintain diplomatic ties and minimize disruptions for citizens and businesses during this transitional phase.

In summary, ECOWAS has chosen to uphold relations with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger following their withdrawal from the organization. The bloc has issued directives to recognize the documentation of citizens from these nations and continue to facilitate trade and movement. These initiatives aim to maintain stability and cooperation until the modalities of future engagement are determined.

Original Source: thewhistler.ng

Related posts:

ECOWAS Offers Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Six-Month Reconsideration Period for Withdrawal Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Set to Exit ECOWAS by 2025 ECOWAS Provides Extension to Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali for Exit Reassessment ECOWAS Commitment: Tinubu Assures Support for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger