Mali’s Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop has reaffirmed his country’s decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), along with Burkina Faso and Niger, despite efforts from the regional bloc to reconcile.
“The withdrawal of the three countries from ECOWAS is irrevocable and was done without delay,” Diop stated on Monday, emphasizing that the decision is final and not open to negotiation.
The three countries’ departure from ECOWAS was sparked by accusations of French manipulation and inadequate support for anti-jihadist efforts. Diop stressed that Mali remains open to cooperation with ECOWAS, but ruled out reversing their exit.
The creation of a confederation among the three countries is a step towards a larger vision of a federation, according to Diop. However, ECOWAS has stipulated a one-year exit timeframe, which the junta-led countries reject.
The departure raises concerns about the free movement of goods and people within the region. Diop warned that introducing visas for nationals of the three countries traveling within ECOWAS would be a step backwards, proving that some ECOWAS officials still resort to “frightening and blackmailing people.”
Instead, Diop emphasized the need to minimize the impact on populations and work towards a mutually beneficial integration process.
AFP