Bénin and Togo forge new cooperation model after Wadagni-Gnassingbé meeting
On June 3rd, Beninese authorities described the visit as a “friendship and working visit,” marking the first regional tour initiated by the country’s new President. Meanwhile, Togolese officials stated that Romuald Wadagni traveled to Lomé on that same day at the invitation of Faure Gnassingbé, Togo’s Prime Minister. One certainty emerged: both nations are committed to redefining their partnership moving forward.
This brief but significant meeting took place within the “framework of historical bonds of friendship, brotherhood, solidarity, and exemplary cooperation that unite Bénin and Togo.” A joint statement released after the presidential visit highlighted the shared goal of deepening their strategic partnership to enhance development and improve living conditions for their citizens.
Both leaders celebrated the “timeless ties of neighborliness, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence” between their peoples. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation across all areas of mutual interest, emphasizing the need to preserve and expand these ties.
Faure Gnassingbé and Romuald Wadagni underscored “the critical role of sustained political dialogue as a preferred tool for consultation, conflict prevention, and fostering peace, stability, and mutual trust” in the region.
During discussions on economic relations, the two presidents welcomed the steady growth in trade between their countries. They agreed to intensify efforts to boost connectivity infrastructure, streamline cross-border trade, attract private investment, and strengthen economic complementarities.
On security matters, both leaders expressed deep concern over the ongoing and escalating threats of terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational organized crime in West Africa. They pledged to “enhance security cooperation by deepening intelligence sharing and securing shared border areas.”
At the conclusion of his visit to Lomé, Romuald Wadagni extended an invitation to Faure Gnassingbé—dean of West African leaders—to undertake an official visit to Bénin. The details and timing of this trip will be determined through diplomatic channels. Notably, Faure Gnassingbé has not visited Bénin during Patrice Talon’s decade-long presidency.
