Mali

First and foremost, U.S. assistance to Mali seeks to support the country’s fragile peace and implementation of the June 20, 2015, peace accord. Key U.S. interests in Mali include promoting a stable democracy and improved governance; promoting regional security by combatting terrorists and traffickers who seek to exploit ungoverned spaces in the Sahel; reducing chronic vulnerability by improving social development and increasing sustainable livelihoods; and encouraging economic growth, opportunity, and development by supporting sustainable development and increased U.S. economic investment. U.S. foreign assistance is administered through a whole of government approach. U.S. programming will focus on achieving tangible peace dividends and continuing our commitment to working with all Malians.

Mali’s economy is growing and some foreign investment has returned in key sectors such as energy, but investment is limited by continuing insecurity in the country. The structural adjustment facility agreements signed between the IMF/World Bank and Mali since 1992 encourage foreign investment. The government's national strategy to fight poverty as presented to the IMF, World Bank, and other donors emphasizes the role of the private sector in developing the economy. Mali is a member of the Economic Community of West African States and the West African Economic and Monetary Union, which aim to reduce trade barriers, harmonize monetary policy, and create a common market.