Türkiye’s growing influence in Africa’s defense landscape received strong recognition from the Malian government following the successful launch of BAMEX’25, a defense industry fair held for the first time exclusively with Turkish companies. Organized under the leadership of Türkiye’s Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), the event brought together leading firms such as Baykar, ASELSAN, Roketsan, MKE, STM, Kalekalıp, 3E, Sarsılmaz, ESSAV, SkyDagger, ZSR, Akıncılar, Hedef Defence and Akdaş Silah, drawing significant attention from military and civilian delegations across Africa.

Mali’s Minister of Communication, Digital Economy and Public Administration Modernization, Alhamdou Ag Ilyene, addressed attempts to disrupt the event and the disinformation efforts surrounding it. The minister highlighted Türkiye’s uncompromising stance during the process, expressing deep appreciation for Ankara’s resolve and the perseverance of participating Turkish companies. “A major smear campaign was launched against Mali and the Sahel region to discourage attendance,” he said. “I truly appreciate Türkiye’s determination. Turkish companies and the Turkish state stood firm, came here and made this fair a real success.”

Commenting on the contribution of Turkish defense companies to Mali’s fight against terrorism, Ag Ilyene emphasized that the foundation of Türkiye–Mali relations is mutual respect. He noted that Türkiye not only respects Mali but also understands its terrain, assesses its security needs onsite and delivers products capable of addressing those needs effectively. “When there is respect, a clear vision and appropriate equipment, everything moves in the right direction,” he said. “For this reason, we can sincerely thank the Turkish companies that work for the security and protection of Africa and the Sahel.”

The minister also stated that cooperation in defense could expand into other fields, pointing out existing partnerships with Türkiye in education, training and healthcare. According to Ag Ilyene, the progress achieved in security and defense can naturally extend to digital technologies, information systems and communication fields, paving the way for broader, long-term cooperation between the two countries.

The positive messages from Mali underscore the strategic importance of BAMEX’25—not only as a defense exhibition but also as a bridge strengthening Türkiye–Africa relations. The event marked a new chapter for Turkish defense firms on the continent and highlighted Türkiye’s role as a reliable partner committed to the stability and security of the Sahel region.