Gambiaj.com – (PARIS, France) – Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and French President Emmanuel Macron held their first official meeting in Paris, signifying a pivotal moment for Franco-Senegalese relations. The encounter took place on the sidelines of a summit co-organized by the Gavi Vaccine Alliance and the African Union (AU), which included other African leaders such as Rwanda’s Paul Kagame and Ghana’s Nana Akufo-Addo.

During a luncheon at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, Presidents Faye and Macron discussed crucial matters concerning the future of their countries’ bilateral relationship.

Key topics included trade agreements, the CFA franc, and the presence of French military forces in Senegal. The latter has been a contentious issue, with Senegalese opposition figure Ousmane Sonko asserting that the French military base is “incompatible with Senegal’s desire to have its own control.”

Debt repayment was another significant issue on the agenda. President Macron addressed the outstanding debts Dakar owes to several French companies, notably Eiffage, which claims 150 million euros (98 billion FCFA) for its involvement in the construction of the Regional Express Train infrastructure.

Efforts to renegotiate this debt had been initiated by Amadou Ba during his visit to France a few months before the presidential election. President Faye is also keen to find a mutually beneficial resolution with his French counterpart.

The meeting further delved into the broader framework of Senegalese-French cooperation. Before coming to power, Pastef had expressed a willingness to engage with all partners, including France, provided the relationship was fair and equitable.

Following their discussion, President Macron expressed optimism about the renewed partnership. On his X feed, he wrote: “After our first meeting, I am convinced: we will give new impetus to the partnership between Senegal and France, united by common democratic values ​​and unwavering human ties.”

The Senegalese Presidency echoed this sentiment on Twitter, stating, “The two presidents discussed the common challenges to be met to continue and strengthen cooperation in sectors that contribute to greater sovereignty for Senegal. They agreed to strengthen structuring projects in various sectors, including energy transition, health, professional training, local production of vaccines, and agriculture.”

The meeting marks a significant step towards redefining and strengthening the historical ties between Senegal and France, aiming for a partnership that supports mutual growth and respect for sovereignty.