ECOWAS has pledged continued engagement with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger despite their exit from the bloc. Dr. Omar Touray, the ECOWAS Commission President, indicated that discussions would proceed with the departing nations to ensure valid movement rights and trade arrangements. The three countries have encountered security challenges leading to their withdrawal and sought closer ties with alternative global powers, like Russia.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expressed its commitment to ongoing dialogue with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, despite their formal exit from the organization. Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, announced this during a press conference in Abuja, underscoring that the decision aligns with regional solidarity and the welfare of the citizens of these nations.

Dr. Touray indicated that the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State is receptive to the possibility of re-engagement with the three countries, noting that two have already initiated contact regarding further discussions. He encouraged relevant authorities to recognize the validity of the travel documents for citizens from these nations, as well as the continued application of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme to goods and services from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

Citizens from the exit nations will retain their rights regarding visa-free movement, residence, and establishment within ECOWAS member states until further notice. Dr. Touray reaffirmed the ECOWAS Commission’s dedication to supporting its officials from these countries during their tenure within the community. To facilitate future engagements, a dedicated structure has been established to discuss re-integration modalities with each of the three countries.

The announcement follows the intention expressed by the three Sahelian nations on January 29, 2024, to withdraw from ECOWAS, a decision formalized within 12 months under the provisions of the organization’s protocol. Despite the formal exit, the ECOWAS leadership continues to advocate for the potential return of these states, emphasizing dialogue as a means of fostering regional cooperation.

The exiting countries have faced numerous challenges, including terrorism and violent extremism, which they attribute to liaisons with Western powers such as France. The military leaders recently severed these ties and have sought closer alignment with Russia, showcasing their departure from prior Western military collaborations. This shift followed political turmoil marked by multiple coups between 2020 and 2023, which led to initial sanctions from ECOWAS demanding a swift return to civilian governance.

In recent developments, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their formal withdrawal from ECOWAS amid concerns regarding governance and security. This decision reflects growing dissatisfaction with the organization’s stance on the coups that took place in their countries and what they perceive as a heavy-handed approach in dealing with their leadership changes. Following their exit, ECOWAS remains open to dialogue and is keen on maintaining relationships with these countries to foster regional stability.

In conclusion, ECOWAS’s approach highlights its commitment to regional cooperation despite significant changes within its member states. The organization emphasizes engagement with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, while acknowledging their concerns regarding security and governance. As the situation unfolds, ECOWAS aims to retain collaborative channels while the trio navigates their newfound political alignments and regional challenges.

Original Source: www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com

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