Meeting in Brussels on Thursday 20 November, the European foreign affairs ministers agreed on the principles of a “new EU approach” for the Sahel region of Africa, where coups d'état have multiplied since 2020, EU missions have been permanently suspended or greatly reduced, and where the terrorist organisations Islamic State and Al-Qaeda, as well as their affiliated groups, are strengthening their presence (see EUROPE 13715/19).
“The focus is on political and diplomatic engagement, human security as well as economic opportunities. The aim is to prevent further conflict, tackle root causes of migration and counter organised crime”, said the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, at a press conference following the meeting.
“We are following with great concern the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel, particularly in Mali”, said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Thursday, noting the “absolute failure of Russia, which had promised the authorities of the Sahel countries to support them in the fight against terrorism”. And he added that: “The result is that terrorism is on the rise everywhere”.
“The EU must remain on the ground”, insisted the Spanish minister, José Manuel Albares. “It must ensure a strong presence”, he added.
The Sahel is set to be one of the priorities of the EU-Africa summit to be held on 24 and 25 November in Luanda (Angola). (Original version in French by Bernard Denuit)