Togo strengthens ties with Kyrgyzstan at Shanghai Cooperation Summit

The President of the Togolese Council, Faure Gnassingbé, expressed his appreciation on Monday for the warm welcome extended to him in Bishkek by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. The Togolese leader is attending the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in the Kyrgyz capital.

Togo’s diplomatic achievements in Bishkek

In a message shared on his X account, Gnassingbé conveyed his gratitude to his Kyrgyz counterpart for the invitation to this international gathering and for the hospitality shown in the Kyrgyz capital. The bilateral talks held on the sidelines of the summit were highlighted as particularly productive, with both leaders praising the depth and relevance of their discussions—though specific topics were not disclosed in the statement.

Strategic diversification of partnerships

Togo’s participation in the SCO Summit underscores Lomé’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic and economic horizons. The event provided a platform for the West African nation to engage with new partners and reinforce its role in global discussions on peace, security, and sustainable development.

The Togolese leader emphasized the country’s dedication to fostering international cooperation that aligns with its vision of shared prosperity. « We remain committed to diversifying our partnerships and advancing a collaborative approach that benefits all nations, » he stated.

Advancing African interests in Eurasia

The SCO Summit in Bishkek also served as an opportunity for Togo to amplify African voices on the world stage. Alongside Egypt, Togo is one of the two African nations invited to the event, a recognition of its growing diplomatic influence.

The Togolese delegation used the platform to advocate for African perspectives in key international debates, reinforcing Lomé’s ambition to play a more prominent role in shaping global agendas. This move aligns with a broader strategy to strengthen ties beyond traditional allies and explore new avenues for cooperation.