Gambiaj.com – (BAMAKO, Mali) – Malians holding the newly introduced AES (Alliance of Sahel States) passports have encountered unexpected difficulties, as several Western diplomatic missions, particularly the French consulate in Bamako, reportedly refuse to recognize the document as a valid travel credential. This development has sparked concerns among passport holders, while Malian authorities insist that all necessary procedures for international recognition have been followed.

In a press release issued on February 16, 2025, the Malian Ministry of Security and Civil Protection acknowledged the complaints but maintained that no official notification had been received from diplomatic partners regarding the rejection of the AES passport.

The statement emphasized that as of January 22, 2025, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Mali’s entire foreign diplomatic network, and all accredited diplomatic and consular missions in Bamako were formally informed of the passport’s launch. Additionally, physical specimens were reportedly shared with relevant authorities to facilitate recognition.

Despite these assurances, Malian authorities acknowledged ongoing “interactions with certain partners on specific issues related to their internal procedures and specific requirements.” The ministry affirmed its commitment to resolving the situation promptly, stating that efforts were underway to “diligently remove any difficulties that may adversely affect the free movement of passport holders.”

Meanwhile, the government has urged citizens experiencing difficulties to report their cases through official channels for individual resolution. This response comes amid broader geopolitical tensions following Mali’s formal withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, 2025.

On the same day, the AES—comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—launched its confederal passport as part of a roadmap aimed at facilitating the movement of people and goods within the bloc.

Malian authorities have reassured citizens that older ECOWAS passports will remain valid until their expiration, and holders may exchange them for AES passports in accordance with existing regulations. President of the AES, General Assimi Goïta, has pledged that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure international acceptance of the new travel document.

As Malian authorities continue discussions with diplomatic partners, the challenges surrounding the AES passport’s recognition highlight the broader diplomatic shifts affecting the region in the wake of Mali’s realignment with its Sahelian allies.