US, Senegal vow to deep cooperation on mutual security, prosperity

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The top American and Senegalese diplomats vowed on Friday to deepen bilateral cooperation, discussing a range of issues that included the COVID-19 pandemic and the ramifications of Russia's war on Ukraine for Africa.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted Senegalese Foreign Minister Aïssata Tall Sall at the State Department for talks to "to reaffirm the United States and Senegal’s commitment to mutual security and prosperity," spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

"The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the devastating impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on food security in Africa and U.S. leadership to mobilize a global response to the crisis. The Secretary commended Senegal’s own leadership in responding to COVID-19 and commitment to combatting pandemic complacency," he added.

Blinken further "expressed U.S. interest in deepening cooperation with Senegal on maritime issues and climate change while stressing the need for continued Senegalese leadership to resolve regional security challenges," said Price.