MWE Correspondent
Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko is preparing to travel to Rabat on Monday in what officials say is an effort to strengthen diplomatic ties and ease tensions following the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Morocco.
The visit comes just over a week after Senegal secured a dramatic 1‑0 victory over the host nation in the championship match on January 18, a result that sparked spirited discussion and heightened emotions among supporters of both teams. While the win was celebrated in Senegal, some incidents before and after the final raised concerns in both countries.
Dakar and Rabat have long enjoyed a friendly relationship rooted in shared history, cultural affinity, and cooperation across multiple sectors such as tourism, energy, infrastructure, education and transport. Both nations also maintain strong ties through shared religious and cultural connections that span decades. The upcoming visit by Sonko aims to reaffirm these longstanding bonds and demonstrate continuing mutual respect between the two governments.
In the days since the final, social media has been abuzz with commentary from fans on both sides, some of it critical and heated, prompting calls from leaders in both countries for calm and mutual respect. The heightened online exchanges highlighted how deeply sport can touch national pride, even as officials emphasize that athletic rivalry should not affect broader diplomatic relations.
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Authorities in Morocco have detained 18 Senegalese supporters in connection with disturbances at the stadium during and after the final. Those held have been charged with public disorder offences, and their trial proceedings in Rabat were adjourned until January 29. The situation has been closely watched by both governments, with Senegalese officials expressing concern and urging fair legal process for those involved.
Ahead of his departure for Rabat, Prime Minister Sonko underscored the importance of maintaining strong ties with Morocco. “Sport brings passion, but our nations share a history and partnership that go far beyond the outcome of a single match,” he said, calling on citizens from both countries to focus on unity and collaboration rather than division.
During his two‑day visit, Sonko is expected to hold talks with senior Moroccan officials on economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and the welfare of Senegalese nationals living in Morocco. He is also scheduled to meet with members of the Senegalese community in Casablanca to listen to their perspectives and strengthen people‑to‑people connections.
The visit highlights the role of high‑level diplomacy in navigating the aftereffects of high‑profile sporting events and reiterates the commitment of both Senegal and Morocco to foster peaceful, cooperative relations. Experts on Senegal–Morocco relations note that this engagement could further solidify ties and serve as a positive example of how nations can balance competitive spirit with respect and mutual interest.
