Senegal hosts 85th african parliamentary union session with call for unity

Dakar — The President of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, delivered a warm welcome to African parliamentary delegations gathered in Dakar for the 85th session of the Executive Committee of the African Parliamentary Union (APU), held on June 3 and 4, 2026.

In his opening address, Mr. Sonko expressed his deep joy and pride in hosting representatives from across the continent. On behalf of Senegal’s legislative body and its people, he extended fraternal greetings and a heartfelt welcome to participants from multiple African nations.

The Assembly President emphasized the critical need for stronger parliamentary cooperation across Africa, especially amid pressing political, economic, and security challenges facing the continent.

« At a time when our continent faces multiple challenges, strengthening parliamentary cooperation is more essential than ever », he stated.

Ousmane Sonko reaffirmed his commitment to the panafrican ideal, asserting that Africa’s future must be shaped by Africans themselves—respecting the continent’s values, aspirations, and interests.

He expressed hope that the 85th session would foster deeper African integration and advance shared continental ambitions.

Concluding his remarks, he extended warm wishes for a productive stay in Dakar and a powerful closing message: « Long live African parliamentary cooperation. Long live a united and sovereign Africa. »