BY JIBRIL TURE

On the sidelines of the ongoing annual General Assembly of the United Nations, U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, met yesterday with Senegal’s new president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye. According to a press release from the Office of the State Department’s spokesperson, “Secretary Blinken and President Faye discussed their shared commitment to democratic values, peace and security, and economic growth and prosperity.”

The press release adds that “President Faye briefed the Secretary on his vision for Senegal’s development and emphasized his intent to create economic opportunities for youth and to bolster food security. He also discussed his efforts to work with partners in West Africa to counter terrorism.” Furthermore, “The Secretary welcomed this update and reiterated that the United States stands with the Senegalese people as they build a more prosperous Senegal.”

It was not the first time the two officials spoke. Prior to Faye’s swearing-in last April, Blinken called him on the phone to congratulate him. At 44, he is the youngest African head of state.

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