Strengthening the partnership between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United States of America was the focal point of discussions between ECOWAS Commission Vice-President Mrs. Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja and US Deputy Secretary of State Mrs. Mallory Stewart in Abuja, Nigeria, on August 20, 2024.
The talks centered on security issues within the ECOWAS region, including regional stability, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, early warning systems, and maritime security.
Senior staff from the ECOWAS Commission provided brief presentations to Mrs. Stewart and her delegation, highlighting measures taken by the regional organization to combat weapon proliferation. These measures include a Convention on Arms Control that mandates ECOWAS Member States to obtain approval from the President of the Commission before importing military equipment. The Convention also requires marking and tracing arms within the Community to prevent illicit activities.
Regarding maritime insecurity in West Africa, it was noted that ECOWAS has collaborated with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and entities in the Gulf of Guinea to implement the Yaoundé Code of Conduct. This initiative aims to enhance regional cooperation on maritime security.
This framework has led to the establishment of regional coordination centers that monitor maritime activities and respond to threats in real-time. It has also contributed significantly to reducing maritime crime in the ECOWAS region.
Vice-President Tchintchibidja emphasized that these initiatives aim to ensure peace, security, stability, and development in West Africa. "There can be no economic development without stability and peace in the ECOWAS region," she stated. On behalf of ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, she expressed gratitude to the United States for its continuous support towards achieving these objectives.
The delegations also discussed chemical weapons and preventing their misuse. Mrs. Mallory Stewart reiterated America's commitment to supporting ECOWAS's efforts in addressing challenges and promoting peace, security, and stability within the community.
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