Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – Moscow is ramping up its diplomatic and economic engagement with Senegal, increasing its embassy staff in Dakar and stepping up multi-sector cooperation initiatives. The move reflects Russia’s satisfaction with the leadership of Senegal’s new President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as the West African nation diversifies its partnerships, shifting focus from traditional allies like France.

In November, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marking a significant step towards enhancing cooperation between the two nations. The call, initiated by Senegal, focused on bolstering traditionally friendly relations, particularly in trade, investment, and development projects.

Unlike other West African countries such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, where Russia’s involvement has largely centered on military cooperation, Senegal’s collaboration with Moscow is rooted in economic and trade relations. Diplomatic sources in Dakar indicate that both nations see potential for growth in key sectors, including geological prospecting, mineral resources, energy and infrastructure, fisheries, and information and communication technologies (ICT).

A significant step in bolstering economic ties came in July with the launch of the Africa-Russia-Eurasia Trade and Investment Chamber in Dakar. Russia has become one of Senegal’s largest suppliers of oil products, and negotiations have led to an agreement for direct shipments of fertilizer, flour, and wheat, cutting out intermediaries to reduce costs.

In the education sector, Senegal has increased scholarships for students pursuing studies in Russian universities, with a growing number of young Senegalese showing interest in the Russian language. Meanwhile, cooperation agreements between Dakar and Moscow now cover trade, economics, science, technology, and humanitarian fields.

The ICT sector is another area of expanding Russian influence. Russian technology giant Yandex has introduced its taxicab service, YanGo, marking its first digital venture in Senegal. The two countries are also finalizing further collaboration in the digital sphere after they initiated discussions during a meeting in Marrakesh in May last year, with Russia offering its expertise to help establish Senegal’s e-government system.

President Faye’s recent inauguration of Senegal’s new digital era signals further opportunities for deepening Russian-Senegalese cooperation in technology.

As Senegal pivots towards a diversified international strategy, Russia appears poised to become a key partner in its economic and technological transformation.

Meanwhile, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is yet to honor President Putin’s invitation to visit Russia, an offer the Senegalese head of state graciously accepted. The planned visit is anticipated to strengthen Russia and Senegal’s partnership, paving the path for stronger cooperation on common interests.