The United Arab Emirates is stepping up its strategic presence in West Africa, with its latest moves focusing on the Alliance of the Sahel States, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

Between promises of cooperation and development and warnings about the exploitation of the Global South for the benefit of the North, a new energy project connecting Europe, Tunisia, and Algeria has sparked debate over its benefits and risks.

The new political leadership in Senegal has started strengthening its steps toward economic integration and bilateral cooperation with its northern neighbor, Mauritania, focusing on several shared issues and strategies.

Spain has launched a medium-term strategic plan to strengthen ties with Africa and fill the European void left by France, building on its recent balanced approach and positive reception by African nations.

Key factors driving Turkiye and Egypt back to negotiations included energy resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, Libya’s political situation, Gulf relations, the Ethiopia dam crisis, Sudan’s instability, and Israeli crimes in Gaza.