Bénin and Togo forge new cooperation model after Wadagni-Gnassingbé rapprochement

On June 3, Bénin’s Presidency described the visit as a “friendship and working tour” marking the start of a fresh regional engagement led by the newly elected Béninese leader. Meanwhile, Togo’s Presidency confirmed that Romuald Wadagni’s arrival in Lomé was at the invitation of Faure Gnassingbé, the country’s Prime Minister. One fact remains clear: both nations are now committed to redefining their partnership moving forward.

This brief but significant visit took place within the “framework of historical ties rooted in friendship, solidarity, and exemplary cooperation that have long defined relations between Bénin and Togo.” A joint statement released after the meeting emphasized the shared ambition of both governments to deepen their strategic partnership for the benefit of their citizens. The leaders celebrated the enduring bonds of brotherhood and peaceful coexistence that have shaped relations between their peoples over generations.

Faure Gnassingbé and Romuald Wadagni reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration across all shared priorities. They highlighted “the critical role of continuous political dialogue as the cornerstone for resolving disputes, preventing conflicts, and fostering peace, stability, and mutual trust between the two neighboring and fraternal nations.”

The discussions also focused on economic relations, with both leaders acknowledging steady growth in trade flows between the two countries. They agreed to redouble efforts to enhance connectivity infrastructure, streamline cross-border trade, attract private investment, and unlock new economic synergies that would benefit both economies.

On security matters, the presidents expressed deep concern over the persistent and expanding threats posed by terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational organized crime across West Africa. They pledged to deepen security cooperation by intensifying intelligence sharing and securing their shared borders.

At the conclusion of the brief Lomé visit, Romuald Wadagni extended a formal invitation to Faure Gnassingbé—West Africa’s longest-serving head of state—to undertake an official state visit to Bénin. The details and timing of the visit will be determined through diplomatic channels. Notably, Faure Gnassingbé has not visited Bénin during Patrice Talon’s decade-long presidency.