ECOWAS deepens ties with Spain, holds Diplomatic Training, Strategic Dialogue

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reinforced its strategic partnership with Spain by expanding educational and diplomatic cooperation initiatives.

This was highlighted during the recent graduation ceremony of the sixth cohort of the Master’s programme in Diplomacy and International Relations, held at the Diplomatic Academy of Madrid on June 9, 2025.

Representing ECOWAS at the event was Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, the Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, accompanied by Dr. Roland Kouakou, Acting Director and Programme Coordinator at the regional body. The advanced training programme forms a vital part of the ECOWAS-Spain Scholarship initiative, designed to empower young diplomats from ECOWAS member states with world-class diplomatic skills and knowledge.

While in Madrid, Professor Sarr also held bilateral talks with key Spanish government officials. She met with His Excellency Mr. Diego Martínez-Belío, Spain’s Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs, and Ms. Ximena Sartori Mana, head of the Sub-Saharan Africa Cooperation Department at the Spanish Agency for the Development of International Cooperation (AECID).

The discussions focused on reviewing ongoing projects and exploring new opportunities to bolster development and diplomatic collaboration between ECOWAS and Spain. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing mutual cooperation in the areas of diplomacy, education, and social development, aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting regional stability in West Africa.