João Cravinho, the EU's Special Envoy for the Sahel, argues that Europe must alter its approach to Africa, focusing on cooperation with countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Chad. He highlights that even though some of these nations have faced coups in recent years, including two in Mali alone, it is crucial to work alongside them instead of distancing from their governments. This marks a shift from previous strategies that may have prioritized more traditional forms of diplomacy.

In his remarks, Cravinho expresses concern over Russia's increasing influence in the region, suggesting that it poses a threat to European interests. The potential for Russia to destabilize relationships and foster anti-European sentiment in these nations is a growing worry for the EU. By advocating for a new form of engagement that seeks constructive dialogue, Cravinho hopes to mitigate such influences and strengthen ties between Europe and African countries.

The implications of this shift are significant, as it calls for a reassessment of past interactions and a more nuanced understanding of Africa's political landscape. A collaborative approach, as suggested by Cravinho, may pave the way for more sustainable partnerships in addressing common challenges, including security, migration, and economic development in the Sahel region.