Bangladesh–Senegal relations

Bangladesh-Senegal relations refer to the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Senegal. Senegal was the first African country to recognize Bangladesh after the liberation war in 1971. Bangladesh has an embassy in Dakar, but Senegal does not have an ambassador in Bangladesh. Relations between the two countries are warm, and both agree to further strengthen this relationship.

History

Senegal was among the first African countries to recognize Bangladesh shortly after its independence in 1971. This early recognition provided important diplomatic support for the newly independent country and helped Bangladesh gain wider legitimacy in Africa and beyond. In the mid-1970s, a Senegalese delegation visited Bangladesh, and both countries engaged in discussions to explore cooperation in trade, culture, and other areas.

On July 13, 1973, Bangladesh and Senegal formally established diplomatic relations. The Bangladeshi ambassador, Anwarul Hag, presented his credentials to the President of Senegal, marking the official beginning of bilateral ties. Following this, the two countries signed a Trade Agreement on May 27, 1974, which laid the foundation for economic cooperation, including trade and commercial exchanges.

In 2003, Senegal publicly supported Bangladesh's candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), demonstrating political backing at the international level. This support was communicated through diplomatic channels and reflected the growing trust and collaboration between the two nations.

Bangladesh and Senegal have also shown interest in expanding economic and technical cooperation. Bangladesh has encouraged the export of pharmaceuticals, garments, ceramics, and jute products to Senegal, while also proposing the deployment of skilled Bangladeshi personnel to support Senegal's socio-economic development. Both countries continue to explore opportunities for deeper trade and investment links as part of broader South-South cooperation initiatives.

Cooperation in international forums

In 2003, Senegal supported Bangladesh's Secretary General in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Economic cooperation

Bangladesh and Senegal have expressed mutual interest in advancing bilateral economic activities and have taken the necessary steps for this. Senegal is interested in investing in important sectors of Bangladesh. Bangladeshi-made ceramics, medicines, ready-made garments, jute and leather products have found good demand in the Senegalese market. Moreover, Bangladesh has called on Senegal to attract skilled human resources who can play a significant role in the development of Senegal's socio-economic sectors.