By Seydou M’BOH
ACALAN MEDIA, BAMAKO, MALI
The African Union (AU) has reaffirmed its commitment to support Mali’s efforts to restore stability, tackle terrorism and advance development following high-level talks between AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Mali’s President, General Assimi Goïta.
The meeting took place at the Koulouba Presidential Palace in Bamako during the AU Commission Chairperson’s official visit to Mali.
President Goïta described the visit as a strong sign of the African Union’s solidarity with the government and people of Mali. He welcomed the continued engagement between the AU and Mali at a time when the country continues to face security and humanitarian challenges.
Chairperson Youssouf thanked the Malian authorities for their warm reception. He praised Mali’s rich history, civilisation and cultural heritage, while also commending the resilience of its people despite years of insecurity.
A major focus of the discussions was the fight against terrorism. Chairperson Youssouf acknowledged the efforts made by President Goïta and the Malian authorities to improve stability. He stressed that terrorism is a shared African challenge that crosses national borders and requires sustained regional cooperation and collective action.
The AU Commission Chairperson also reaffirmed the African Union’s readiness to assist Mali through key continental institutions, including the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). The support will focus on humanitarian needs, development priorities and efforts to strengthen national cohesion.
Youssouf further reiterated the African Union’s commitment to accompany Mali as it works towards restoring constitutional order, promoting lasting peace and accelerating sustainable development. He also commended President Goïta’s commitment to good neighbourliness and stronger regional cooperation.
For his part, President Goïta reaffirmed Mali’s determination to maintain close dialogue with the African Union and continue working with the continental body on issues of shared interest.
Earlier in the day, Chairperson Youssouf met Mali’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdoulaye Diop, before holding talks with President Goïta.
The visit reflects the African Union’s continued engagement with Mali as the country seeks to overcome security challenges, strengthen national unity and create conditions for lasting peace and development.