Chad is expressing a growing interest in joining the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a regional bloc currently comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Chadian Minister of Communications and government spokesperson Gassim Cherif publicly voiced his personal support for Chad’s membership in the AES during an appearance on national television.
He described the AES as “a wonderful experience” and suggested that N’Djamena should “seriously consider” joining the alliance.
Cherif emphasized that such a move would align with President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s objective of restoring Chad’s sovereignty, following the termination of defense agreements with France .
Further reinforcing this sentiment, Presidential Adviser Ali Abdel-Rhamane Haggar highlighted the cultural and historical ties between Chad and the AES member states.
He noted that the populations across Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali share socio-political realities, and that developments within AES countries have significant implications for Chad.
Haggar also warned against external influences that could destabilize the region, emphasizing the importance of regional unity in combating poverty and asserting sovereignty.
What is the Alliance of Sahel States
The AES, established in 2023, originated as a mutual defense pact among Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso following the three nations leaving ECOWAS. The alliance aims to strengthen regional cooperation and assert greater autonomy from external influences.
