ECOWAS voices concern over growing tensions between Algeria and Mali

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep concern over the rising tensions between Algeria and Mali following the downing of a military drone, the AFP reports.

The dispute escalated after Algeria claimed it had shot down a foreign military drone, without identifying the country of origin, on April 1. Mali later confirmed that one of its drones had been downed but insisted it was operating within Malian airspace. Algeria, however, maintains that the drone had entered its territory.

In response, both nations have closed their airspace to each other. Mali and its allies—Niger and Burkina Faso— have also recalled their ambassadors from Algeria. Algeria reciprocated by withdrawing its own ambassadors from the three nations.

Additionally, Mali’s military government announced its withdrawal from CEMOC, a regional security alliance formed in 2010 to coordinate efforts against Al Qaeda in North Africa. The organization includes Algeria as a key member.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formed their own military pact with the Alliance of Sahel States in 2023.

Tensions between Algeria and Mali have been simmering since Mali’s 2021 military coup. The junta has reportedly since leaned on Russian mercenaries and advanced weaponry to suppress Tuareg separatist movements in the north.

ECOWAS said both sides should "de-escalate the tension, foster dialogue and use regional and continental mechanisms to settle differences".

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formally withdrew from ECOWAS in January criticizing the bloc for being overly aligned with Western interests. ECOWAS responded by saying the doors remain open to the three nations.