The Alliance of Sahel States biometric passport will strengthen the sense of belonging to a common entity, Iba Karim, a former Burkinabe lawmaker, told Sputnik Africa.
"These standardized documents could simplify customs formalities and reduce border control formalities, promoting increased mobility of citizens and goods. This would also strengthen intra-confederal trade," Karim said.
Vice President of the Bloc for the Recovery and Development of Mali Agali Welé told Sputnik Africa that the initiative is a "breakaway from ECOWAS." He noted that this decision shows the willingness of the authorities of the Sahel countries to take responsibility for geopolitical changes.