Niger’s military-appointed Head of Government Ali Mahaman Laminé Zeine played host to a delegation from Bamako.

The visit by Mali’s Head of Diplomacy Abdoulaye Diop follows the ruling Junta in Niger accused France of actively planning to carry out an attack. The meeting took place on Monday in Niamey, however, nothing is known about the topics discussed.

Experts speculate that economic and security cooperation between Bamako and Niamey was on the menu. The Sahelian countries share a long border where Al Qaeda affiliate terrorist groups are active.

Mali on numerous occasions flagged its support for Niger and warned that any military use of force in the country is an act of war.