Mali: Beninese President Wadagni visits Assimi Goita; here's what they discussed.

Benin's new president, Romuald Wadagni, paid a friendly working visit to Mali yesterday afternoon, Tuesday, June 9, 2026. He was greeted upon his arrival by his Malian counterpart, General Assimi Goita.

After the military honors and the playing of the national anthems, the two heads of state proceeded to the Koulouba Palace. Inside the presidential residence, Assimi Goita and his guest held a private meeting, followed by a working session with members of both delegations.

They examined the prospects for economic, trade and cultural cooperation between the two countries  

The discussions focused on bilateral relations as well as several issues of common interest at the sub-regional, regional, and international levels. The President of the Transition, Assimi Goita, reaffirmed his commitment to working towards the development of relations between the two countries. He also discussed with his counterpart the prospects for economic, trade, and cultural cooperation.

The two leaders agreed to encourage exchanges of delegations and to revive bilateral consultation mechanisms, through the holding of the second session of the Benin-Mali Joint High Commission for Cooperation.

They reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference.

Security issues were not overlooked. Wadagni and Goita reviewed the evolving political and security situation in West Africa and the Sahel. They reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference, while emphasizing the need for strengthened coordination in the fight against terrorism and transnational threats.

Assimi Goita invited to Cotonou

At the end of his visit, the new Beninese president, Romuald Wadagni, expressed his gratitude to the Malian government and people for the warm welcome he received and invited Assimi Goita to pay a working and friendly visit to Benin. The strongman of Bamako readily accepted the invitation. The details of this visit will be finalized through diplomatic channels.