Guinea–Mali relations

Guinea–Mali relations are the bilateral diplomatic relations between Guinea and Mali. The two countries share a state border measuring 1,062 km in length.

History

Since gaining independence in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Mali and Guinea have maintained generally good relations. Following a series of border incidents, the Guinean ambassador to Mali suggested the presence of third-party provocateurs who may have instigated the conflicts. Overall, diplomatic relations between the two countries were not significantly affected by these incidents; however, recurring cross-border clashes raised concerns due to their negative impact on economic activity in the region. Nevertheless, the authorities of both countries have worked to address growing discontent among local populations in order to prevent further escalation, loss of life, and material damage.

In November 2017, illegal gold miners from both countries were involved in a large-scale clash at gold mining sites, resulting in the deaths of 22 people. In May 2018, a confrontation occurred along the border between law enforcement agencies of the two countries, in which six people were killed and around 60 were injured. A wedding procession from Mali requested permission from Guinean police to cross the state border. After being denied, Malian citizens began throwing stones at the officers, and Guinean police responded by opening fire, killing several Malians.

Guinea and Mali are members of the ECOWAS.

See also

• Foreign relations of Guinea
• Foreign relations of Mali
• Guinea–Mali border

References

Mali Category:Bilateral relations of Mali