Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye held talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Tuesday, with discussions focusing on security challenges in the Sahel and the future of cooperation between West Africa and its international partners.
According to the Senegalese presidency, President Faye emphasized the need for continued international support in the fight against terrorism while reaffirming Senegal’s commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts across the region.
The meeting comes as Senegal is expected to assume a more prominent role within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
With Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio nearing the end of his mandate as chair of the regional bloc, Dakar is widely seen as a leading contender to take over the rotating presidency.
Senegal has already secured the presidency of the ECOWAS Commission for the 2026–2030 term, with General Birame Diop expected to lead the institution.
Should Senegal also assume the chairmanship of the Conference of Heads of State, it would simultaneously hold both the political and executive leadership of ECOWAS at a time when the region faces persistent security threats, tensions with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), and broader questions about the future direction of regional integration.
The Berlin meeting provided an opportunity for Dakar to engage one of its key European partners on sustaining support for peace, stability, and development in the Sahel.
