Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni has launched a diplomatic effort to repair strained relations with Niger and Burkina Faso, signaling a potential thaw after years of tensions linked to military coups in the Sahel. Niger had closed its border with Benin in 2023, accusing the country of harboring French military bases linked to destabilization plots. Following a meeting with junta leader Abdourahamane Tiani, both countries issued a joint statement pledging cooperation on border security and counterterrorism. Wadagni then proceeded to Burkina Faso, where he met with Ibrahim Traore. Both leaders pledged that their countries will work together to combat terrorism and violent extremism. The visits are part of Wadagni’s stated commitment to active neighborhood diplomacy. Analysts say his predecessor, Patrice Talon, was a focal point of Sahelian grievances, and his departure created an opening for rapprochement that Wadagni is utilizing.
Africanews
