Mali and Guinea held a high-level technical meeting in Conakry on Wednesday to reinforce border cooperation, facilitate the free movement of people and goods, and address potential tensions related to shared cross-border resources.
The meeting took place at the Noom Hotel and was chaired by Guinean Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Bachir Diallo. The Malian delegation was led by Mossa AG Attaher, Minister for Malians Living Abroad and African Integration.
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in trade and security management along the common border.
General Diallo underscored the historical and fraternal ties between border communities, expressing appreciation for Mali’s commitment to fostering stability and collaboration.
“Strengthening cooperation is vital to ensuring the smooth movement of people and goods while maintaining security,” he said.
Key topics included reducing bureaucratic barriers at border posts, establishing clear protocols for the flow of goods and people, and developing mechanisms to streamline trade while enforcing applicable laws. Both countries emphasized the importance of balancing security with economic and social exchanges to benefit communities on both sides of the border.
The meeting also addressed livestock movement, notably the April 2025 incident in the Kankan region, where a large number of Malian herds were expelled. The dispute, tied to cross-border resource use, highlighted existing tensions and the need for improved coordination between the two governments. Measures were proposed to prevent similar conflicts in the future and to ensure equitable management of shared resources.
At the conclusion of the talks, it was agreed that a detailed report, containing practical recommendations, would be prepared to guide future cooperation initiatives. Officials stressed that strengthening border management and economic collaboration would not only facilitate trade but also contribute to regional stability and social cohesion.
The meeting marks a significant step in Guinea-Mali relations, signaling a shared commitment to peaceful, prosperous, and well-managed border areas.
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