On August 28, 2026, Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine welcomed the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxime Prévot, to Niamey. This meeting marked the conclusion of a diplomatic trip aimed at restoring engagement with Niger and the broader Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Prior to his stop in the West African nation of Niger, the Belgian chief diplomat held discussions in Ouagadougou on August 27 with Burkinabè President Ibrahim Traoré. This two-part tour, encompassing both Burkina Faso and Niger, highlights Belgium’s commitment to diplomatic re-engagement in the region.

Maxime Prévot articulated his desire to rebuild connections between the European Union and the AES countries, even in the face of existing disagreements. He stressed the importance of a dialogue founded on mutual respect to foster renewed political Sahel cooperation.

Belgium maintains a long-standing history of collaboration with Niger, particularly in the vital sectors of health, education, and agropastoral development. These areas continue to form the core of Belgium’s enduring presence and humanitarian Sahel efforts within the country.

This strategic diplomatic approach is further reinforced by Belgium’s sustained presence in the central Sahel, where it operates diplomatic missions in both Niamey and Ouagadougou, demonstrating a firm commitment to the region’s stability and development.