Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf has embarked on a West Africa tour, including visits to Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana. The aim of this tour is to engage in discussions about the ongoing crisis in Niger and find ways to adopt a political solution to prevent any escalation of the situation in the region.
On Wednesday, August 23, 2023, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf began a diplomatically crucial tour in West Africa. This series of visits, which includes stops in Nigeria and Ghana, will also lead him to Cotonou, the capital of Benin. In the Benin capital, the Algerian foreign minister will meet his Beninese counterpart and is likely to have a tête-à-tête with President Patrice Talon.
Main Objective According to an official statement from the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the main objective of this tour is to initiate consultations with leaders and officials of these ECOWAS member countries. The priority is to address the ongoing crisis in Niger and discuss measures to avoid a potential escalation of the situation, which would have repercussions not only on Niger but also on the stability of the region as a whole.
The statement also specifies that Algeria firmly opposes any military intervention in Niger. Algeria’s preferred approach is a negotiated political solution that takes into account the interests and aspirations of all parties involved. This approach reflects Algeria’s concern for the stability and security of the region while promoting dialogue and cooperation among nations.
Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana are part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional organization that plays an important role in managing political and economic affairs in the region. ECOWAS, which has initiated talks with the Nigerien junta in the hope of restoring constitutional order with the return to power of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, has also activated its military intervention force to act forcefully if the diplomatic option proves unsuccessful.
