Mali and Algeria are on the brink of overcoming a significant diplomatic crisis that disrupted decades of amicable relations between the two nations. The Algerian ambassador returned to Bamako on January 5, and his Malian counterpart is expected in Algiers. Qatar has played a mediating role in facilitating the reconciliation between the two countries.
According to Malian media reports, Doha has played a constructive role in improving relations between Bamako and Algiers. Last week, the Malian Foreign Minister met with the Qatari Prime Minister in Doha. Qatar has proposed enhancing bilateral relations with Mali and making investments in the country.
As a geopolitical ally of Algeria, Qatar has endeavored to de-escalate tensions between the two nations, working towards a swift reconciliation. Several experts suggest that Qatar sees Algeria as an obstacle to its influence in the Sahel region. The Gulf nations are in economic and influential competition across the African continent.
Interestingly, just before the outbreak of the crisis with Mali, Algeria had accused the United Arab Emirates of allocating $15 million to Morocco to sow discord between Algeria and Sahelian countries.
Algeria emphasizes commitment to Mali’s territorial integrity
Algeria has also reiterated its “unwavering commitment” to Mali’s “territorial integrity,” sovereignty, national unity, and the peaceful path to ensure peace and reconciliation.
Tensions escalated when Algeria received Tuareg separatists, followed by Imam Dicko’s visit to Algeria. Malian authorities claim they were not invited, although Algeria insists that invitations were extended. Algeria sought to breathe new life into the 2015 peace agreement, while Malian authorities prioritized the “national ownership of the peace process” and the establishment of an inter-Malian dialogue.