Sahel states forge strategic ties with China, rejecting dependency narrative

On the eve of the forum’s opening, AES President Colonel Assimi Goïta convened with Niger’s delegation, led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, and Burkina Faso’s delegation, headed by Prime Minister Apollinaire Kyélem De Tambéla.

This strategic meeting aimed to forge a unified approach to strengthen ties with China, an increasingly pivotal partner for the Sahel bloc.

Following the meeting, Nigerien Prime Minister Zeine emphasized the commitment of AES member states to work together in the face of current challenges.

“President Goïta leads the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), and on behalf of our respective Presidents, General Tiani and Captain Ibrahim Traoré, we were tasked with paying this courtesy visit to extend our respect to our colleague, brother, and friend who leads our Confederation,” he stated.

The Sahel leaders underscored the importance of maximizing the benefits of their cooperation with China while safeguarding their national interests.

“We carefully listened to the President, who provided us with advice, guidance, and instructions to accelerate ongoing efforts to strengthen this Confederation,” added Zeine.

Addressing reporters alongside his Burkinabè counterpart, Zeine noted that while China naturally seeks to advance its own interests as a strategic partner, the AES countries are determined to engage assertively.

“We will negotiate rigorously, defend our interests, and ensure that China’s presence has a tangible impact on the development and progress of our countries and our populations,” he affirmed.

The AES leaders were unequivocal in their stance that they are not in Beijing to seek handouts but to explore mutually beneficial partnerships.

“We have not come to ask for aid.

Our countries are rich in resources, both human and natural.

We are here to explore how this great nation, China, can further invest in our region.

We are here, without any sense of inferiority, to offer what we have and to encourage China to engage more deeply with African nations,” concluded Zeine.

The AES’s participation in the forum marks a significant step in its efforts to reposition itself on the global stage, seeking investment and collaboration over dependency, and striving to reshape its economic future through strategic international partnerships.