« The stronger Senegal’s sovereignty, the stronger the bilateral relationship will be, » declared Christine Fages, France’s Ambassador to Senegal, in a candid interview. Her remarks underscore a vision of Franco-Senegalese cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared strategic interests, and the unwavering recognition of each nation’s autonomy.
Addressing recent shifts in Dakar’s political landscape, Fages dismissed any notion of strained ties between the two countries. She emphasized that institutional mechanisms are firmly in place to navigate sensitive issues while sustaining open dialogue. « A nation that clearly defines its strategic interests and acts decisively on them finds it easier to engage with partners, even those whose approaches may differ, » she noted.
visa procedures: navigating challenges and fraud risks
The Ambassador also shed light on the complexities surrounding visa applications between the two countries. With France processing approximately 53,000 visa requests annually in Senegal—nearly half of all EU visa applications in the country—she acknowledged delays in appointment scheduling as a persistent challenge.
Fages issued a stern warning against fraudulent intermediaries exploiting applicants’ eagerness. « If anyone demands payment for a visa appointment, it’s a red flag, » she cautioned. She reiterated that appointments are free of charge and urged applicants to remain vigilant against counterfeit documents and inflated service fees.
thiarioye 44: a commitment to historical truth
Turning to the sensitive issue of Thiarioye 44, Fages confirmed that French President Emmanuel Macron had publicly acknowledged France’s responsibility in the tragic events. She highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen historical research, including the transfer of relevant documents to Senegalese authorities. « France is fully prepared to support scientific investigations to uncover the full truth, » she affirmed.
cultural restitution: progress and challenges
The discussion also touched on the return of Senegalese cultural artifacts held in French collections. Fages pointed to the 2021 restitution of El Hadj Oumar Foutiyou Tall’s sword as a milestone, while noting that the process demands meticulous documentation and provenance verification. With thousands of Senegalese artifacts identified in French institutions, she stressed the importance of careful assessment to determine eligibility for restitution.
international cooperation: supporting Senegal’s global role
On the possibility of former Senegalese President Macky Sall’s candidacy for UN Secretary-General, Fages remained diplomatic. « The process is still in its early stages, and France will weigh all candidates before making a decision, » she explained. She added that Paris would take the necessary time to evaluate the best path forward.
Regarding Senegal’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Ambassador reaffirmed France’s steadfast support. « Both the IMF and Senegal stand to benefit from continued collaboration, » she stated. She underscored France’s commitment to assisting Senegal in its economic engagements with international financial institutions, even amid ongoing negotiations for a new program.
a personal touch: embracing senegalese culture
As France’s first female Ambassador to Senegal, Fages shared her deep appreciation for the country’s culture. She singled out ataya—the traditional Senegalese tea ceremony—as a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and the value placed on human connection. « It encapsulates the essence of Senegalese society and the way visitors are welcomed, » she reflected.
