By Seydou M’BOH, ACALAN Media Correspondent
BAMAKO, MALI
The African Union (AU) has reiterated its solidarity with Burkina Faso in its efforts to restore peace, combat terrorism and promote stability, following talks between AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ouagadougou, focused on security challenges, regional cooperation, governance and sustainable development.
Minister Traoré welcomed the AU Commission Chairperson’s visit, describing it as a reflection of the Union’s support for Burkina Faso and its commitment to working directly with Member States to address shared continental challenges.
Chairperson Youssouf said the purpose of his visit was to convey the African Union’s support to the government and people of Burkina Faso as they confront terrorism and work towards lasting peace and stability.
He reaffirmed the AU Commission’s readiness to support Burkina Faso through relevant continental institutions, particularly in humanitarian response, public health and sustainable development.
Strengthening Regional Response to Sahel Crisis
Youssouf stressed that the security challenges facing the Sahel require stronger regional cooperation and collective action.
He said the African Union remains committed to advancing dialogue and collaboration among countries in the region. He also noted that the AU High Representative for the Sahel, H.E. Mamadou Tangara, would continue working closely with regional partners to promote cooperation and shared priorities.
Promoting Governance and Respect for Sovereignty
The AU Commission Chairperson highlighted Burkina Faso’s early commitment to continental governance principles through its ratification of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
He described the Charter as an important framework for promoting good governance and building responsive institutions across Africa.
Youssouf also reaffirmed the AU’s respect for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, in line with the AU Constitutive Act.
Burkina Faso Supports AU Financial Independence
Minister Traoré welcomed the discussions as constructive and candid, reaffirming Burkina Faso’s commitment to playing an active role within the African Union.
He expressed support for the AU’s institutional reform agenda and stressed the need to strengthen the Union’s financial independence through increased mobilisation of domestic resources.
According to the Minister, a financially autonomous African Union is critical to delivering on the continent’s priorities.
The Ouagadougou meeting forms part of the African Union’s continued engagement with Member States as the continent seeks collective solutions to challenges of peace, security and sustainable development.
