ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Youssouf Ali, has lauded the decision by Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone to resolve ongoing border tensions through peaceful and diplomatic means, following a high-level tripartite summit in Conakry.
In a statement issued on March 18, 2026, the AU Commission Chairperson commended the three West African nations for embracing dialogue in line with the African Union’s foundational principles, including the Constitutive Act and the AU Non-Aggression and Common Defence Pact.
The tripartite summit, hosted by the Heads of State of the three Mano River Union (MRU) member countries, took place on March 16 in Conakry, Guinea. It centered on strengthening border cooperation and promoting stability within the region.
“The Chairperson highly commends the Governments of Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone for the collective decision to choose the path of dialogue and pursue a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to ongoing border tensions,” the statement read.
H.E. Mahmoud Youssouf Ali lauded the spirit of good neighborliness and mutual respect demonstrated by the three nations, describing the outcome as a significant achievement that underscores the value of African-led solutions to African challenges.
The Chairperson also acknowledged the constructive role played by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and international partners in facilitating the dialogue. He noted that the peaceful settlement serves as a model for conflict prevention across the continent and strengthens the foundations for sustainable peace and development in the Mano River region.
In a further show of regional commitment, the three countries agreed to convene a Mano River Union Summit within the next month. The AU Commission Chairperson applauded this decision, emphasizing the importance of revitalizing the MRU as a platform for regular dialogue on peace, security, and development.
The African Union has reaffirmed its continued support to the governments and peoples of the three countries as they work to consolidate progress and advance regional stability.
