Mali: Diaspora and Prospects for Cooperation

Mali: Diaspora and Prospects for Cooperation
Bamako | 17–19 July 2025

European Strategic Initiative (ESI) conducted a mission to Bamako, in partnership with the Association for the Development and Integration of Malians Abroad (ADIME), to pursue the dialogue initiated between Malian and European stakeholders on migration, development and the role of the diaspora.

The mission followed a working visit by a Malian delegation to Brussels in May 2025, which provided an opportunity for discussions with European institutions and stakeholders on migration dynamics, local development and prospects for cooperation.

In Bamako, ESI took part in the first International Diaspora Forum, organised by the Malian authorities from 17 to 19 July 2025. The Forum highlighted the role of the diaspora in the country’s economic and social development, particularly through investment, entrepreneurship, skills transfer and support for local initiatives.

As part of the mission, ESI was received by Habib Sylla, President of the High Council of Malians Abroad (HCME). Discussions focused on the diaspora’s contribution to Mali’s development, strengthening ties with communities and territories of origin, and prospects for cooperation in support of entrepreneurship, young people and local initiatives.

ESI also met with Chérif Ousmane Madani Haïdara, President of the High Islamic Council of Mali. The meeting provided an opportunity to address the social, cultural and community dimensions of development, as well as the importance of dialogue and social cohesion. Discussions also focused on community concerns relating to employment, migration and opportunities for young people.

Through these meetings, the mission helped deepen dialogue with Malian stakeholders and identify several avenues for cooperation bringing together the diaspora, local development, entrepreneurship and the mobilisation of international partners.

The mission forms part of Africa–Europe Synergy, ESI’s initiative dedicated to strategic dialogue and the development of partnerships between African and European stakeholders.