ECOWAS Continues Services for Departing Nations Despite Exit.
The Economic Community of West African States announced that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger could keep their regional benefits after their withdrawal takes effect on January 29, 2025.
Citizens from these three nations will maintain visa-free movement across ECOWAS states. Their passports and ID cards with ECOWAS logos remain valid until further notice.
The regional body said trade agreements stay active. Goods and services from these countries keep their status under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and investment policy.
ECOWAS officials from the departing nations can continue working with the community. The commission has created a framework for discussing future relationships with each country.
"These arrangements will stay until we determine future engagement methods," ECOWAS stated. The body aims to prevent disruptions to people's lives and businesses during this change.
The statement emphasized that ECOWAS doors remain open to the three nations, highlighting the organization's focus on regional unity and public interest.
A new structure within ECOWAS will guide talks with each country to establish their future relationships with the regional bloc.
The Economic Community of West African States announced that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger could keep their regional benefits after their withdrawal takes effect on January 29, 2025.
Citizens from these three nations will maintain visa-free movement across ECOWAS states. Their passports and ID cards with ECOWAS logos remain valid until further notice.
The regional body said trade agreements stay active. Goods and services from these countries keep their status under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and investment policy.
ECOWAS officials from the departing nations can continue working with the community. The commission has created a framework for discussing future relationships with each country.
"These arrangements will stay until we determine future engagement methods," ECOWAS stated. The body aims to prevent disruptions to people's lives and businesses during this change.
The statement emphasized that ECOWAS doors remain open to the three nations, highlighting the organization's focus on regional unity and public interest.
A new structure within ECOWAS will guide talks with each country to establish their future relationships with the regional bloc.
