Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot was received by Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine in Niamey on August 28, 2026. This meeting marked the culmination of a diplomatic initiative aimed at re-establishing channels of communication with Niger and other member nations of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Prior to his Nigerien engagement, the Belgian top diplomat held discussions in Ouagadougou on August 27 with Burkinabè President Ibrahim Traoré. This two-part diplomatic tour underscores Belgium’s commitment to fostering relations across the Central Sahel region, including important Ouagadougou news and Burkina government news.

Minister Prévot emphasized his desire to mend and rebuild connections between the European Union and the AES countries, even in the face of existing disagreements. He strongly advocated for a renewed dialogue founded on principles of mutual respect.

Belgium maintains a long-standing partnership with Niger, particularly focused on crucial sectors such as health, education, and agropastoral development. These areas continue to form the core of Belgium’s ongoing presence and collaborative efforts in the nation.

This strategic approach is further reinforced by Belgium’s enduring diplomatic presence in the Central Sahel, evidenced by its continued operation of diplomatic missions in both Niamey and Ouagadougou.