Burkina Faso/Mali: The Burkinabe authorities remain true to their values of solidarity and fraternity

Ouagadougou, August 5, 2024 – The government of Burkina Faso, led by President Ibrahim Traoré, has strongly condemned the recent show of support by the Ukrainian ambassador in Dakar for terrorists involved in deadly attacks in northern Mali at the end of July.

This stance underscores Burkina Faso’s commitment to the principles of solidarity and fraternity with African nations, particularly those within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In response to the ambassador’s message, the Burkinabe government, driven by President Traoré, expressed outrage and condemned what they described as a “diabolical maneuver.”

The government reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa), emphasizing that it is inconceivable and unacceptable for any foreign nation to back criminals who inflict suffering on Malian families and threaten peace and security in the Sahel region and Africa as a whole.

This support for terrorists, the Burkinabe government argued, constitutes interference, provocation, and a blatant disregard for the lives of Malian and African citizens.

Acknowledging the difficult situation their Malian counterparts and the people of Mali are facing, Burkina Faso’s authorities called on the international community and peace-loving African nations to take responsibility and address this issue.

The Malian government, deeply disturbed by the Ukrainian authorities’ statements, has decided to sever diplomatic ties with Ukraine, effective immediately. This decision was announced on Sunday, August 4, by Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, the spokesperson for the Malian government.

As Burkina Faso continues to stand in solidarity with Mali, this incident highlights the broader geopolitical tensions affecting the region and the importance of unified efforts to combat terrorism and uphold stability and peace in Africa.

Papa IBRAHIMA