The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expresses its deep concern over the escalation of tensions between Mali and Algeria. In an official statement, the regional organization urges both nations to de-escalate the situation, prioritize dialogue, and utilize regional and continental mechanisms to resolve their differences.
Origin of Diplomatic Tensions
The current crisis stems from the destruction of a Malian military drone by the Algerian army in the Tinzaouatine region, near the border between the two countries. Algeria claims the aircraft violated its airspace for approximately 2 kilometers, thus justifying its interception. In response, Mali disputed this version, maintaining that the drone was operating in its own airspace.
Diplomatic Measures and Air Restrictions
Following this incident, a series of diplomatic measures were taken:
- On April 7, Mali and Algeria closed each other’s airspace.
- Burkina Faso and Niger, members of the Alliance of Sahel States (ESA) alongside Mali, recalled their ambassadors to Algeria in solidarity with Bamako.
- In response, Algeria recalled its ambassadors to Mali and Niger and suspended the appointment of its ambassador-designate to Burkina Faso.
Calls for Dialogue and Perspectives
Faced with this escalation, ECOWAS calls on the parties concerned to prioritize dialogue and use regional and continental mechanisms to resolve their differences. This situation underscores the need for enhanced cooperation between Sahel nations to maintain regional stability.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether these calls are heeded and whether concrete measures are taken to ease tensions between Mali and Algeria.
