Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire have urged Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to rejoin ECOWAS, emphasizing unity and democratic transition. President Mahama expressed willingness to mediate between ECOWAS and the new Alliance of Sahel States. The leaders discussed regional security threats and cooperation in the cocoa economy, aiming to foster stability and joint defense against terrorism.

Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire have issued a call for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to reconsider their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). During a press conference in Abidjan, Presidents Alassane Ouattara and John Dramani Mahama emphasized the importance of regional unity and the necessity for a democratic transition within these nations.

On his visit to Côte d’Ivoire, President Mahama expressed his willingness to serve as a mediator between ECOWAS and the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES). He stated, “To see how we can work with them so that they not only remain within our subregion, but also do the transition to constitutional democracy.” His offer comes in the wake of several unsuccessful mediation attempts by Togo and Senegal to maintain ECOWAS’s cohesion in the face of the Sahelian nations’ withdrawal.

Mahama remains dedicated to fostering regional stability and has plans to engage directly with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He expressed optimism, saying, “There’s more that unites us than divides us,” and affirmed his intention to visit these countries to promote dialogue.

President Ouattara endorsed Mahama’s efforts, hoping that the message of reconciliation would resonate with the Sahelian leaders. He remarked, “I hope that President Mahama’s appeal will be heard by these three brother countries, that we can continue together within ECOWAS.” The decisions made by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger stemmed from military coups and their grievances regarding ECOWAS’s actions, including economic repercussions following recent instability.

Additionally, the leaders addressed discussions on defense, security, and their cocoa economies, acknowledging their significant roles as major cocoa producers. Mahama reiterated Ghana’s support for addressing extremist threats in the region, emphasizing interdependence by comparing regional instability to a neighboring house on fire. He elaborated, “We’re prepared to help them to fight terrorism because in our country, we all know that when your neighbour’s house is on fire, you have to help him to quench it before it spreads into your own compound.”

As ECOWAS leaders work towards repairing their alliances, attention will focus on Mahama’s upcoming visits to the Sahelian nations, which hold potential implications for the region’s economic and security framework.

In summary, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire are prioritizing regional unity by encouraging the Sahel Juntas to restore ties with ECOWAS. Through mediation efforts, President Mahama aims to facilitate dialogue and promote democratic transitions in the breakaway nations. The discussions also highlight the importance of security cooperation and regional stability in combating extremism, illustrating the interconnectedness of these West African countries.

Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh

Related posts:

President Mahama Concludes Bilateral Talks in Côte d’Ivoire with President Ouattara Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso Exit ECOWAS Amid Rising Tensions ECOWAS Confirms Transition Period for Sahel Nations’ Exit from Bloc ECOWAS Summit Addresses Departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger