The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) have agreed to establish joint working groups following renewed discussions on regional cooperation.
The agreement followed ministerial-level talks in Dakar, Senegal, on October 17, 2026, according to reports published over the weekend.
The AES comprises Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, which formally withdrew from ECOWAS in January 2025 after prolonged disagreements with the regional bloc.
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The latest discussions are intended to provide a framework for continued engagement despite political differences between the two sides.
Areas of concern include cross-border trade, the movement of people and goods, regional security and practical cooperation on issues affecting West African countries.
The talks are significant because the three Sahel countries maintain important economic and transport links with other ECOWAS members. Disruptions to these relationships could affect businesses, border communities and regional supply chains.
The establishment of working groups does not mean that the differences between the parties have been resolved. However, it provides a channel for further discussions on matters of mutual interest.
The progress of the talks will be important for regional integration and efforts to address insecurity across West Africa.
Source: Graphic Online, October 18, 2026.
