Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, following discussions in Ouagadougou, arrived in Niamey on August 28 to advocate for a re-engagement in dialogue with Niger and the broader Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
On August 28, 2026, Maxime Prévot, Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, concluded his diplomatic mission in Niamey, where he was formally received by Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine. This visit marked a significant effort to re-establish communication channels with Niger and other member nations of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Preceding his arrival in Niger, the Belgian diplomatic chief engaged in discussions on August 27 in Ouagadougou with Burkinabè President Ibrahim Traoré. This two-part tour underscored a strategic focus on both Burkina Faso and Niger in the region, drawing attention in the latest Burkina Faso news and Ouagadougou news cycles.
Prévot articulated his commitment to rebuilding connections between the European Union and the AES countries. He stressed the importance of fostering a dialogue based on mutual respect, even in the face of existing disagreements.
Belgium maintains a long-standing cooperative relationship with Niger, particularly concentrated in vital sectors such as health, education, and agropastoral development. These areas continue to form the bedrock of Belgium’s engagement within the nation.
This diplomatic strategy is further reinforced by Belgium’s enduring presence in the Central Sahel region, evidenced by its permanent diplomatic missions located in both Niamey and Ouagadougou.