Photo: Collected

DHAKA, April 21, 2026 (BSS) – Bangladesh and Senegal have expressed strong interest in expanding bilateral ties and boosting trade, as leaders of the two countries held talks on the sidelines of an international forum in Dakar.

The discussion was made when State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam met Prime Minister of Senegal Ousmane Sonko during her visit to attend the Dakar International Forum on Peace and Security in Africa, said a foreign ministry’s press release here today.  

During the meeting, Sonko commended Bangladesh’s recent democratic process and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Both sides recalled the historic 1981 visit of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, accompanied by Begum Khaleda Zia, noting its role in laying the foundation for friendly ties between the two countries.

The Senegalese side expressed keen interest in expanding cooperation in trade, economic development, sports and culture, while both leaders stressed enhancing people-to-people contacts and business-to-business linkages.
The state minister underscored the importance of holding regular Foreign Office Consultations to institutionalise bilateral engagement.

She also conveyed an invitation from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to his Senegalese counterpart to visit Bangladesh, which Sonko accepted, agreeing to undertake the visit at a mutually convenient time.
The Senegalese prime minister warmly welcomed the Bangladesh delegation and appreciated Dhaka’s active participation in the forum, while the state minister thanked Senegal for the invitation and opportunity for dialogue on global and regional challenges.

Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Morocco and Ambassador-designate to Senegal Sadia Faizunnesa accompanied the state minister during the meeting.

The state minister is on a three-day official visit to Dakar, leading the Bangladesh delegation at the forum.