Summary
The Alliance of Sahel States, established by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has announced the creation of a common biometric passport to bolster regional cooperation. During a recent address, AES Chair Col. Assimi Goita highlighted security achievements and reiterated openness to collaboration with international partners. The AES was formed to address escalating security challenges and includes a joint military force. The recent summit underscored the commitment of the nations to combat terrorism while promoting unity.

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprised of the military-led governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has announced the impending launch of a common biometric passport aimed at fostering regional cooperation and enhancing security. Col. Assimi Goita, Chair of the AES and leader of Mali’s junta, disclosed this initiative during a television address commemorating the one-year anniversary of the bloc’s formation. The AES was established in September of the previous year to address escalating security threats from militant groups in the region. In addition to the passport initiative, the AES has also developed a joint military force designed to tackle the rising instability affecting these nations. Notably, the three countries withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) amid tensions following a coup in Niger in July of the prior year. Currently, the combined population of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso is approximately 72 million, all of whom are grappling with challenges tied to terrorism and civil unrest. During the first summit of the AES leaders held in Niamey in July, the progress made against terrorist organizations was celebrated. Col. Goita emphasized that the AES remains receptive to dialogues with both international and regional partners to further bolster security. He remarked that the cooperative measures taken have substantially hindered terrorist activities in the region. Furthermore, plans to establish a common television station were also revealed, signifying a commitment to improve communication and unity among the member states.

The establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) represents a strategic response to the increasing threats posed by terrorist groups within West Africa. Formed in September 2022, the AES comprises Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, all of which have experienced significant instability in recent years due to militant activities. The AES’s formation coincided with a period of turmoil, including political coup d’états in the member countries, which ultimately led to their withdrawal from ECOWAS, a regional bloc that had shown intentions to intervene militarily in Niger. The shared challenges of terrorism and conflict prompted these nations to unify their efforts towards security and regional cooperation.

In summary, the Alliance of Sahel States is taking significant strides towards enhancing regional security and cooperation through the introduction of a common biometric passport and the formation of a joint military force. These initiatives, underscored by recent military successes against terrorist groups, reflect the commitment of the AES leaders to improve stability in their respective nations. As the region faces ongoing threats from extremist organizations, the AES welcomes collaboration with international and sub-regional partners, aiming for a more secure and cooperative future.

Original Source: www.yenisafak.com

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