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Ecowas Okays Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Exits, But Offers Re-Entry

The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), West Africa's regional bloc, has approved an exit timeline for Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger after a nearly year-long process of mediation. The regional bloc, however, gave the three countries six months to reconsider their departure from the group.

The three countries intend to withdraw in January after rejecting the bloc's demand for a return to democratic rule. The new effective departure date has been extended to July 29, although January 29 will still be the official withdrawal date. The bloc hopes to convince the countries to return during the six-month transition period.

Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger said that their territories would remain visa-free for all ECOWAS citizens post-exit. 

InFocus

Deutsche Welle

A map showing the Ecowas states.

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