NAIROBI, December 28. /TASS/. The Malian Army has significantly enhanced its combat capabilities with Russia's support, and Moscow will continue assisting Bamako in stabilizing the country's internal situation, Russian Ambassador to Mali Igor Gromyko said in an interview with TASS.

"During the visit of Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop to Moscow (in February - TASS), it was emphasized that, thanks to Russia's substantial assistance, the Malian army has significantly enhanced its combat potential in defending the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty," the ambassador said. He also noted that one of the main goals of the Alliance of Sahel States (the union of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger) is to ensure national security and counter terrorist threats.

"We will continue to effectively assist Bamako in stabilizing the internal situation, including addressing the existing socio-economic challenges, while fully respecting the inalienable right of Malians to determine the path of development for their country," the ambassador emphasized.

On September 16, 2023, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger established the Alliance of Sahel States, a regional collective defense organization. On January 28, 2024, these three countries jointly announced their decision to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as soon as possible, citing the belief that the community is "subject to the influence of foreign powers and has become a threat to member states and their peoples." On July 6, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger declared the formation of the Sahel States Alliance - confederation to enhance cooperation and integration.