Mali/Terrorist attacks: A premeditated act with a specific aim, according to President Abdourahamane TIANI
The transitional President of Niger, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has expressed condolences and solidarity with Mali following the terrorist attacks of Tuesday, September 17, which targeted Bamako’s international airport and the National Gendarmerie schools in the Malian capital.
According to Malian military authorities, the swift and professional response of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) helped prevent significant damage, successfully neutralizing the assailants.
President Tiani, in his statement, emphasized that these heinous acts of terror were far from random. He believes the attacks were meticulously planned with the usual backing of foreign sponsors of terrorism.
The Nigerien leader pointed out that the timing and choice of targets were likely deliberate, aiming to disrupt the operationalization of the Confederation of Sahel States and Mali’s ongoing efforts toward national reconstruction.
The attacks coincided with critical events in Bamako, particularly relating to the future of the Sahel Alliance.
On September 16, Mali celebrated the first anniversary of the Sahel States Alliance (AES), marked by a speech from the president of the AES, outlining major projects for the region.
Simultaneously, the foreign ministers of AES member states gathered in Bamako to strategize ways to accelerate the diplomatic implementation of their shared organization.
Additionally, ministers responsible for reconciliation from the AES countries were in Mali for the launch of the third edition of the National Reconciliation Week in Gao.
The attackers, it seems, sought to disrupt these significant initiatives, spreading chaos and panic among the Malian population.
President Tiani reiterated Niger’s unwavering support, alongside the backing of the entire Sahel Alliance, in the fight against terrorism and those who finance such violent actions.
He emphasized the need to neutralize these threats to peace and stability in the region, expressing solidarity with the people of Mali as they navigate these challenging times.
Titi KEITA
