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Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has sealed a series of strategic economic agreements during a high-level forum in Hangzhou, reinforcing Sino-Senegalese ties and signalling a deepening of bilateral cooperation across key sectors.
On the second day of his official visit to China, Prime Minister Sonko presided over the China-Senegal Economic Forum in the capital of Zhejiang province, an event that brought together Chinese and Senegalese business leaders, investors, and senior public officials.
The forum, hailed by Senegal’s Government Information Office as a pivotal moment in the visit, culminated in the signing of multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding.
The deals span several vital areas, including infrastructure, industry, housing, transportation, and energy — all considered essential pillars for Senegal’s long-term development.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Sonko underscored the strategic vision behind his government’s development blueprint, stating: “Senegal’s development is based on a strategic partnership with the private sector, and China is a key partner in this ambition.”
Calling on Chinese investors to play a greater role in Senegal’s transformation, Sonko highlighted the nation’s geographic advantages, institutional stability, and the government’s steadfast commitment to structural reforms.
His remarks positioned Senegal as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment, with a particular emphasis on long-term collaboration with Chinese enterprises.
The economic forum in Hangzhou — a city widely regarded as a beacon of innovation and high-tech growth — was seen as a powerful symbol of the strengthening relationship between Dakar and Beijing.
The day before the forum, Prime Minister Sonko held talks with Zhejiang’s provincial governor, Liu Jie, focusing on expanding economic cooperation and identifying new channels for mutual investment.
Accompanied by a delegation of senior ministers and technical advisors, Sonko is on a mission to fast-track Senegal’s structural transformation and solidify its status as a key West African economic hub.
The visit underscores China’s growing interest in the region and highlights Senegal’s ambition to leverage international partnerships for sustainable growth.
