Friedrich Merz, representing the CDU, praised the reform course adopted by the Senegalese government. During a meeting with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomae Faye at the Chancellery, Merz stated that Senegal has experienced “pleasantly positive development in recent years.”
He noted that more German companies are seeking opportunities in the Senegalese market and affirmed that the German government intends to support this growth. Merz further characterized Senegal as a “dynamic country” with a very young population that requires new prospects, stating that Germany plans to deploy its tools of foreign trade promotion and development cooperation to help. This support involves fostering investment and training in future-oriented professions.
However, Merz emphasized that investments require stable structural conditions. He welcomed the current reforms implemented by the Senegalese government, such as the introduction of a new investment law. While expressing appreciation for these steps, he concurrently encouraged the guest regarding the need for further advancements in this direction.
Senegal is a partner country of the “Compact With Africa” initiative, which was launched under Germany’s G20 presidency in 2017, aimed at promoting economic development across the African continent. Currently, the trade volume between the two nations stands at approximately 270 million euros, with exports to Senegal significantly outweighing imports. Furthermore, a German-Senegalese investment protection agreement has been in place since 1966.
