Burkina Faso Reaffirms AES Commitment to Respectful Multilateralism at OACPS Summit

Malabo, March 29, 2026 - Burkina Faso has reiterated its commitment to a form of multilateralism grounded in respect for national sovereignty and local development paths, during the 11th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). Speaking on behalf of President Ibrahim Traoré and the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, underscored the need for a renewed multilateral framework that prioritizes dignity, mutual respect, and context-specific solutions. Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, called for stronger solidarity among member states and urged reforms to transform the OACPS into a more effective platform for international cooperation. The delegation highlighted the urgency of addressing intertwined security, humanitarian, and climate challenges, particularly in the Sahel region. The statement also drew attention to the escalating terrorist threat, noting that the Sahel accounts for a significant share of global terrorism-related fatalities. In response, the AES reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding state sovereignty, enhancing strategic autonomy, and advocating for a more balanced and equitable global order. Concluding its address, Burkina Faso and its AES partners expressed readiness to deepen collaboration with OACPS members, focusing on economic resilience, regional integration, and inclusive development strategies. They called for reinforced solidarity to turn current crises into opportunities for sustainable and shared growth.