Iran Seeks Closer Ties With Sahel Alliance
Iran is seeking to strengthen cooperation with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger as Tehran looks to expand its economic and strategic partnerships across West Africa.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation with the three countries, including potential collaboration in the defense and military sectors.
Araghchi also raised the possibility of holding a summit involving Iran and the three AES members, which could provide a platform for expanding political and strategic coordination.
Beyond defense, the proposed cooperation could extend to energy, mining, agriculture, healthcare and advanced technologies.
The initiative reflects Tehran’s broader effort to develop new economic and strategic partnerships in the Sahel, while Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger continue to deepen their cooperation through the AES.
Any future military cooperation would depend on specific agreements reached between the parties.