Senegal’s Prime Minister and Turkish President Sign Deals to Boost Key Sectors

Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara on Thursday, marking a significant step in deepening the strategic relationship between the two nations.

President Erdoğan formally welcomed Sonko to the Turkish capital, where the two leaders engaged in bilateral talks focused on expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. The visit also included a meeting between Sonko and Numan Kurtulmuş, the Speaker of Turkey’s Grand National Assembly, underscoring the multi-level diplomatic engagement between Dakar and Ankara.

Following the discussions, four key agreements were signed, covering the areas of defense, media, and education. These accords are aimed at enhancing institutional collaboration, knowledge exchange, and security partnerships.

Turkey’s Directorate of Communications stated that the visit was part of ongoing efforts to “deepen cooperation” and foster a long-term strategic partnership between the two countries.

President Erdoğan has previously visited Senegal twice—in 2018 and 2020—as part of Turkey’s broader diplomatic outreach to Africa. In recent years, Ankara has accelerated engagement with African nations, driven by political, economic, and defense interests.

Turkey’s national carrier, Turkish Airlines, has played a pivotal role in strengthening these ties, providing direct connections between African capitals and Istanbul. Additionally, Turkey’s growing reputation as a defense technology supplier—particularly in drone manufacturing—has made it a sought-after partner for several African governments seeking to modernize their security capabilities.

Prime Minister Sonko’s visit reflects the increasing importance both countries place on their bilateral relationship, with expectations for expanded trade, enhanced cultural exchanges, and deeper defense cooperation in the coming years.