CSS and ECOWAS Begin Negotiations Months After Withdrawal from the Regional Blocs

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Confédération des États du Sahel (CSS) have launched formal consultations in Bamako following the official withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS on January 29, 2024.

The joint press communiqué, released on May 22,  marks the beginning of negotiations on key areas of shared interest. The talks brought together Foreign Ministers from CSS and the President of the ECOWAS Commission to establish a roadmap for future cooperation.

The key discussion areas included the parties formally adopting a framework to begin negotiations between ECOWAS and the CSS. Discussions are expected to address various political, diplomatic, legal, institutional, and socio-economic issues.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to preserving the gains of regional integration, particularly the free movement of people and goods, even in the context of new arrangements.

Recognising the deteriorating security situation in the region, the parties agreed on the urgency of enhancing collaborative efforts to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability.

The communiqué emphasised the constructive and collegial atmosphere of the discussions, with both parties agreeing to continue the dialogue in the spirit of mutual interest.

In March, CSS announced the introduction of a 0.5 per cent tariff on imports from non-member countries to finance its regional integration efforts.

According to a document signed by Mali’s military leader and CSS president, General Assimi Goïta, revenue from this tariff will be allocated to finance key CSS initiatives, including economic development, public infrastructure projects, and social support programmes.

It should be recalled that CSS introduced its regional passport on January 29, 2025, and is continuing to build its institutional framework.

Additionally, following a ministerial meeting in Bamako on January 16, 2025, the CSS announced the creation of a Regional Investment Bank to spearhead development financing and facilitate large-scale infrastructure projects across member states and has since begun a joint fight against terrorism in the Sahel.

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