28 Feb ECOWAS and COAFR collaborate on security in West Africa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission and the Council of the EU-Africa Working Party (COAFR) collaborated in a discussion about West Africa and its security.

This meeting explored shared regional goals of security, and development with Ms Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, presiding over the session.

She said: “Today’s gathering is a testament to our joint commitment towards fostering a peaceful, secure, and prosperous West Africa. Our collaboration with the European Union lays a solid groundwork for achieving these goals, reflecting our mutual dedication to the principles of sustainable development and regional cohesion.”

The Council of the EU-Africa Working Party (COAFR) Chair, Yamina Guefri, spoke about unification during the session, and collaboration.

She stated: “We are honoured to be part of this dialogue, which not only reaffirms our commitment to strengthening the EU-ECOWAS partnership but also provides a platform for discussing key regional issues and the outcomes of the recent ECOWAS summit. Our focus is on enhancing cooperation, sharing insights, and working together towards the common objectives of democracy, good governance, and economic development in West Africa.”

According to the statement by the APO Group on behalf of ECOWAS, the meeting highlighted the progress and initiatives following the Extraordinary Summit, addressing security challenges in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger.

It read: “The renewed collaboration between the COAFR and the ECOWAS Commission represents a strengthened dedication to a partnership that serves as a fundamental pillar for promoting security, peace, and regional integration in West Africa.”