President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, who currently serves as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, has called for a stronger partnership between ECOWAS and the AES countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The appeal was made during a courtesy visit from Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission.
President Bio welcomed the delegation and stressed the importance of cooperation between the Authority and the ECOWAS Commission. He stated that closer ties with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are essential to advancing trade, ensuring free movement, and improving peace and security in West Africa. “It is imperative that we build a stronger relationship between ECOWAS and the AES nations and harness this partnership for the advancement of our Community,” he said.
He also expressed support for democratic transitions in the region, mentioning ongoing processes in Guinea as well as upcoming elections in Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau.
Additionally, President Bio proposed holding a Special Summit to discuss future directions for West Africa after 50 years of regional cooperation.
Dr. Touray updated President Bio on current developments within ECOWAS. He noted that President Bio takes up his leadership role at a time when there are significant challenges across member states. Dr. Touray discussed political situations within various countries, addressed issues related to the Community Levy, administrative matters, and affirmed his commitment to working closely with President Bio to promote unity in the region.
Dr. Touray also confirmed that an assessment mission will soon be deployed to Sierra Leone and Guinea as part of efforts to address the Yenga border dispute between those two countries.
For further information or enquiries about these discussions or initiatives, contact can be made through State House Media and Communications Unit at [email protected].