The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, balancing relations with neighboring Algeria and Morocco. Both North African nations hold significant influence in the Sahel region, particularly regarding security, trade, and diplomatic support.
Algeria has historically positioned itself as a key mediator in the region and shares long borders with Mali and Niger. However, its relations with the AES states have been strained following the military coups, with Algeria expressing concerns over regional stability and closing its airspace to Malian military aircraft in 2022.
Conversely, Morocco has actively sought to deepen ties with Sahel nations, promoting its own security cooperation model and fostering economic partnerships. In early 2026, Niger's ruling military council received a Moroccan delegation, signaling ongoing engagement despite regional tensions.
The strategic choice for the AES is not necessarily exclusive but reflects a broader recalibration of alliances. The bloc's primary focus remains on consolidating its own defense pact and managing internal security challenges, making its engagements with Algiers and Rabat pragmatic rather than ideological.
