**Former African Rivals Boost Economic Ties**
Algiers and Bamako have taken significant steps towards strengthening their economic cooperation, as announced by the Malian government on Monday. The agreement comes on the heels of a series of discussions between Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga and Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb in Bamako, where both leaders explored various sectors for potential joint projects.
Key areas identified for collaboration include mining, agriculture, energy, and transport. The Malian government presented a range of investment opportunities, particularly in its burgeoning gold and lithium industries. Additional sectors highlighted for potential growth include rice and cotton production, livestock, agro-industry, and financial services. Mali also pointed out export opportunities for agricultural products such as mangoes, sesame, and cashew nuts.
The discussions also encompassed critical infrastructure and energy issues. The two leaders reviewed the prospects for the Trans-Sahara Highway and the potential for enhanced air travel connections via Air Algerie. Furthermore, the dialogue addressed Mali's ongoing energy deficit, signaling a mutual interest in developing sustainable energy solutions.
In a broader context, Ghrieb emphasized Algeria's commitment to resuming institutional cooperation with Mali, characterizing this initiative as a means to elevate bilateral relations to a "new stage." This renewed focus on cooperation marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two nations, which had been strained in recent years.
The diplomatic ties between Algeria and Mali had faced considerable challenges, particularly following an incident in April 2025 when Algeria claimed to have shot down a Malian surveillance drone for violating its airspace. The Malian government disputed this claim, and tensions escalated as Mali withdrew from a 2015 peace agreement brokered by Algeria with northern separatist groups. Mali further accused Algeria of supporting armed groups, a claim that Algeria denied.
However, the two countries have made strides toward reconciliation since restoring diplomatic ties in July. This included the return of ambassadors and the reopening of airspace. Prime Minister Maiga's visit to Algiers in August marked the first high-level engagement since the diplomatic fallout, and arrangements are now in place for a forthcoming visit by Malian leader Assimi Goita to Algeria.
In addition to strengthening ties with Mali, Algeria has also sought to mend relations with Mali's partners in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), including Burkina Faso and Niger. During the diplomatic dispute with Bamako, both Burkina Faso and Niger had recalled their ambassadors from Algiers.
The ongoing rapprochement has also extended into security cooperation. In late August, Algeria deployed four Su-30 fighter jets to Niger at the request of the Nigerien government, following a failed military mutiny in the capital, Niamey. This move underscores the broader implications of the renewed ties, as both nations seek to enhance regional security and stability.
As Algeria and Mali embark on this new chapter of economic collaboration, the focus will likely remain on leveraging their respective resources and strengths to foster mutual growth and development. The commitment to work together across various sectors reflects a strategic shift aimed at overcoming past grievances and building a more cooperative future.