• Burkina Faso and Senegal reaffirm commitment to deepen cooperation in security, trade, energy, and integration.

• Bilateral trade reached approximately $58 million in 2023, a figure deemed “low” by the Senegalese Prime Minister.

• Partnership efforts will target energy, agriculture, and regional security, especially in the Sahel.

Burkina Faso and Senegal have reiterated their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation during a working session held on May 17 in Ouagadougou. The meeting, which brought together Prime Ministers Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo and Ousmane Sonko, focused on diplomacy, defense, culture, sports, economy, energy, and regional integration.

Both heads of government emphasized the urgency of coordinating efforts in the security sector. The fight against terrorism, cross-border crime, and the illicit circulation of arms featured prominently in the talks.

Beyond security, both parties expressed a desire to revive economic exchanges. In 2023, bilateral trade stood at CFA34 billion, or around $58 million. The Senegalese Prime Minister described the volume as “low” and urged stronger partnerships in sectors such as energy and agriculture.

“The momentum triggered both in Burkina and Senegal must be reinforced through collaboration, exchange of experiences, and information,” said Ousmane Sonko. He also reaffirmed Senegal’s commitment to African integration, citing the recent creation of a dedicated ministry.

This meeting reflects growing ties between Senegal and Burkina Faso, a member of the Sahel States Alliance (SSA). In February, the two countries pledged to reinforce military cooperation in support of regional security during the visit of Senegal’s Minister of Armed Forces, General Birame Diop, to Mali.