(Ecofin Agency) - In recent years, West Africa has seen a surge in terrorist attacks. The Sahel remains the epicenter, accounting for 47% of terrorism-related deaths worldwide in 2023, according to the Global Terrorism Index. But the threat isn’t confined to the region—coastal nations are feeling the impact too.

Senegal and Mali have pledged to deepen their military cooperation to enhance regional security. This commitment was made during a visit by Senegalese Defense Minister General Birame Diop to Mali from February 5 to 7.

General Diop met with his Malian counterpart, General Sadio Camara, to discuss key security issues, including border protection, counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and military training. The talks led to the signing of several agreements aimed at strengthening defense collaboration between the two countries.

Highlighting the importance of this partnership, General Diop emphasized that it aligns with the strategic vision of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. He called for increased cross-border patrols and expanded military training exchanges.

“The fight against terrorism, violent extremism, cross-border crime, illicit trafficking, and criminal networks requires a joint effort,” General Diop said.

Environmental concerns were also on the agenda, particularly the pollution of the Falémé River. General Diop urged Malian authorities to take action to protect this vital ecosystem.

For his part, Malian Defense Minister General Sadio Camara welcomed the strengthened partnership, stressing that Mali remains open to solid cooperation with Senegal, despite its withdrawal from ECOWAS.

West Africa has seen a sharp rise in terrorist attacks, with the Sahel region at the center of the crisis. According to the 2024 Global Terrorism Index by the Institute for Economics and Peace, nearly 4,000 terrorism-related deaths were recorded in the region in 2023—accounting for 47% of the global total. The border area between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has been particularly hard hit.

In response to the growing threat, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) is planning to establish a joint force of 5,000 soldiers to combat armed groups and strengthen regional stability.