The current Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, has been visiting Burkina Faso since Monday, April 20, 2026. He was received in audience by his Burkinabe counterpart, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The two men discussed issues related to the fight against terrorism and the restoration of good relations between AU member states and the AES Confederation. Following the meeting, the Burundian leader spoke to the press.

Ibrahim Traoré was congratulated for "his courage, dedication and commitment to peace and stability in his country"

He praised the support, patriotic love, and commitment of the Burkinabé people, standing alongside Captain Traoré in the fight against terrorism and for sovereignty. In his view, the land of upright men has made progress in the fight against 'the bearded ones'.

“I found in Burkina Faso a country that has become stable, a friendly people who welcomed us with joy,” said the AU Chairperson. He also congratulated Captain Traoré for “his courage, dedication, and commitment to peace and stability in his country.”

"The AU must form a solid bridge that will link the people of Burkina Faso to the peoples of Africa."

"Now I know the objective reality of the Sahel region and also of the Burkinabé people," he continued, promising to take it into account in the preparation of his report.

The Burundian leader also stressed the need for the AU to serve as a bridge between the peoples and institutions of the continent in order to foster a shared future based on cooperation and solidarity. "The AU must be a solid bridge that will link the people of Burkina Faso to the peoples of Africa, and Burkinabe institutions to other African institutions," said Evariste Ndayishimiye.