President John Dramani Mahama has held talks with Malian leader General Assimi Goïta in Bamako as part of efforts to strengthen ties with neighbouring countries.

 The presidency, in a Facebook post today, March 9  2025, said discussions covered bilateral relations, regional security, and economic cooperation.

Mr Mahama described the visit as a reaffirmation of the longstanding friendship between Ghana and Mali, built on the foundation laid by Dr Kwame Nkrumah and Mali’s first president, Modibo Keita.

He was received at the airport by General Goïta before heading to the Presidential Palace for further engagements.

The visit forms part of a broader regional tour, with President Mahama expected to continue to Niger and Burkina Faso.

His interactions with leaders in these countries come at a time of shifting political dynamics in West Africa, as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso move away from ECOWAS structures.

Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, had previously attended Mr Mahama’s inauguration, an indication of his administration’s intention to maintain relations with Ghana despite ongoing political realignments.

Mr Mahama’s discussions with regional leaders are expected to explore ways to sustain cooperation in trade, security, and diplomacy.