Benin and Togo strengthen ties with new era of regional partnership

Benin and Togo forge stronger ties in fresh regional partnership

On June 3, the Beninese presidency announced a friendship and working visit as part of the first regional tour led by the newly elected Beninese leader. Meanwhile, the Togolese presidency confirmed that Romuald Wadagni traveled to Lomé on the invitation of Faure Gnassingbé, the Togolese head of government. What remains clear is that both nations are now prioritizing a renewed approach to cooperation.

This visit took place within the framework of the long-standing ties of friendship, solidarity, and exemplary cooperation that bind Benin and Togo. It also underscored the shared commitment of both countries’ top leadership to deepen their strategic partnership for the benefit of their populations, as highlighted in a joint statement following the brief presidential visit.

In their discussions, the two leaders praised the centuries-old bonds of neighborliness, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence between their peoples. They reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen cooperation across all areas of mutual interest, emphasizing the need for sustained political dialogue as a key tool for resolving disputes, preventing conflicts, and fostering trust.

Reviewing economic ties, the leaders celebrated the steady growth in trade between the two nations. They agreed to continue efforts to enhance connectivity infrastructure, streamline cross-border trade, attract private investment, and expand economic complementarities.

On security matters, the leaders expressed deep concern over the ongoing threats of terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational organized crime plaguing West Africa. They pledged to deepen security cooperation, including increased intelligence sharing and securing shared border regions.

At the end of his brief stay in Lomé, Romuald Wadagni extended an invitation to Faure Gnassingbé—West Africa’s longest-serving leader—to undertake an official visit to Benin. The details and timing of the trip will be finalized through diplomatic channels. Notably, this would mark Gnassingbé’s first visit to Benin in over a decade, despite Patrice Talon’s presidency.