President Diomaye Faye strengthens Senegal–Kuwait ties during official reception in Kuwait

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye was accorded full state honors on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, during an official reception at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait, marking a significant moment in the deepening diplomatic relations between Senegal and the State of Kuwait.

President Faye, who was accompanied by a high-level delegation, was warmly received by His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait. The ceremony reflected the longstanding friendship and mutual respect shared by the two nations.

According to a statement released by the Senegalese presidency, the two leaders held extensive discussions in an atmosphere described as solemn, fraternal, and marked by strong mutual regard. During the meeting, Emir Sheikh Meshal recalled with emotion the special place Senegal holds in the hearts of the Kuwaiti people, underscoring the historical bonds that have linked the two countries for decades.

President Faye and the Emir expressed satisfaction with the excellent state of bilateral relations, characterized by trust, cooperation, and enduring friendship. Both leaders agreed on the need to further strengthen these ties by elevating them to a more strategic level, particularly in key sectors such as peace and security, agriculture, energy, infrastructure development, industrial growth, and food security.

The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to expanding cooperation in ways that support sustainable development and regional stability, while reinforcing the role of South-South partnerships in addressing global and regional challenges.

At the conclusion of the high-level talks, Emir Sheikh Meshal hosted an official banquet in honor of President Faye, symbolizing the unbreakable bonds of fraternity and friendship between Kuwait and Senegal.

President Faye’s visit is widely seen as part of Senegal’s broader diplomatic engagement strategy aimed at strengthening partnerships with key allies in the Gulf region, while promoting investment, development cooperation, and political dialogue that serve the interests of the Senegalese people and the wider West African region.