Burkina-Senegal: Closer cooperation, concrete agreements

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko paid a friendship and working visit to Ouagadougou from May 16 to 17, at the invitation of his Burkinabe counterpart, Rimbatla Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, as part of the strengthening of cooperation relations between Burkina Faso and Senegal.

Accompanied by several ministers from his government, Ousmane Sonko co-chaired with his host a series of works focused on themes of common interest, notably diplomacy, security, culture, economy and trade.

→ Also Read : Senegal-Gambia Relations: A new chapter in economic growth

In a joint statement, the two delegations praised the quality of bilateral cooperation, based on historical ties of friendship and fraternity, and underlined their commitment to Pan-Africanism and the sovereignty of African states.

A convergence of views was also noted between Presidents Ibrahim Traoré and Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on the control of their destiny without foreign interference.

→ Also Read : Cooperation: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is visiting Senegal, Mauritania, and The Gambia

On the security front, both parties called for pooling efforts to combat the terrorist threat and cross-border crime.

Mr. Sonko renewed Senegal’s support for Burkina Faso in its fight against terrorism and paid tribute to the Burkinabe forces who fell in combat.

→ ALSO READ : Buildings and public works (BTP): the private sector and the State unite to face the crisis

The cultural aspect was also highlighted, notably during the inauguration of the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum, where the Senegalese Prime Minister paid tribute to the memory of the Pan-Africanist leader.

The two heads of government agreed to strengthen exchanges in the fields of sport, culture and creative industries.

On the economic front, progress was noted in facilitating trade, particularly via the Port of Dakar, and a project to open a representation of the Burkina Faso Chamber of Commerce in Senegal was welcomed.

Finally, it should be noted that the upcoming holding in Dakar of the 6th session of the Major Joint Cooperation Commission has been announced, sealing the desire of the two countries to continue and intensify their strategic partnership.