Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are set to introduce a common biometric passport, reinforcing their commitment to closer regional collaboration after their departure from the West African regional bloc ECOWAS. Mali’s military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, stated that the new passport will enhance ease of travel and mobility for citizens of the three Sahel states, as part of a broader effort to build stronger connections between the nations.

Alongside the passport initiative, the countries plan to create a shared information network to ensure consistent dissemination of news and developments. This move comes as the three states mark the first anniversary of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed after the nations severed ties with ECOWAS, accusing it of being too heavily influenced by their former colonial ruler, France.

The alliance has signaled a significant geopolitical shift, with the three governments seeking closer ties with Russia. Russian mercenaries are now assisting the militaries of these states in combating jihadist groups, which have caused widespread instability in the region.