Former President John Dramani Mahama has met with Malian leader General Assimi Goïta in Bamako to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and Mali.
A statement from the presidency, shared on Facebook on March 9, 2025, indicated that their discussions focused on bilateral cooperation, regional security, and economic partnerships.
Mr. Mahama emphasized that the visit reaffirmed the historic relationship between Ghana and Mali, which dates back to the leadership of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Mali’s first president, Modibo Keita.
Upon arrival in Bamako, he was welcomed by General Goïta before proceeding to the Presidential Palace for further talks.
The visit is part of a broader diplomatic tour, with Mr. Mahama expected to travel to Niger and Burkina Faso in the coming days.
His engagements with regional leaders come at a time when Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are shifting away from ECOWAS structures, leading to significant political realignments in West Africa.
Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, had earlier attended Mr. Mahama’s inauguration, signaling a continued commitment to maintaining ties with Ghana despite the evolving political landscape.
The discussions during this tour are expected to focus on sustaining collaboration in trade, security, and diplomacy.