In a move seen as a response to Morocco's initiative facilitating Atlantic access for Sahel states, Algerian President announced plans for free trade zones with both Niger and Mali. This announcement comes amidst Algeria's efforts to maintain its influence in the region.
«Morocco has a clear opportunity in the Sahel, but only if it avoids repeating the past missteps of France and Algeria», emphasizes Ali Ansari, president of the Timbuktu Center for Studies.