Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko concluded his multi-day official visit to Turkey with a message blending realism and reassurance for Senegalese citizens living there.
The visit, which ended on Sunday, included a direct meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where several bilateral matters were addressed — notably the administrative status of Senegalese expatriates in Turkey, a pressing concern for many in the diaspora.
Highlighting respect for national sovereignty and legal frameworks, Sonko emphasised that “no state can force another to violate its own legislation on migration, let alone demand that its nationals be guaranteed impunity in the event of a violation of said legislation.”
His firm stance underlines the importance of abiding by Turkey’s laws while expressing a commitment to “diplomacy and method” in resolving residence permit issues affecting Senegalese nationals.
During the bilateral talks, Sonko secured assurances from Erdogan for favourable treatment of Senegalese residents, who enjoy a positive reputation in Turkey. This diplomatic breakthrough opens the door to negotiated solutions aimed at easing the renewal or regularisation of administrative documents for the community.
These developments come amid tighter Turkish immigration controls, which have led to increased scrutiny and challenges for foreigners, including Senegalese residents. Reports suggest that visa renewal procedures have become fraught with difficulties, sometimes resulting in arrests even for those legally residing in the country.
By addressing these challenges openly, Sonko sought to calm anxieties within the Senegalese diaspora, reaffirming that protecting their interests remains a government priority — while respecting the host country’s legal requirements.
As Senegal continues to strengthen ties with Turkey, this visit signals a balanced approach combining diplomatic engagement and pragmatic respect for law, ensuring that Senegalese abroad receive both support and protection.
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