Relations between Germany and Senegal are wide-ranging and friendly. The two countries maintain a lively political exchange, including at the highest level, and engage in close cooperation on a range of topics.

Senegal is one of the partner countries in the Compact with Africa initiative, which was launched during the German G20 Presidency in 2017 and is aimed at promoting economic development on the African continent. Bilateral trade is worth around 214 million euro, with Germany exporting significantly more to Senegal than it imports from the country. A bilateral investment protection agreement has been in place since 1966. There is an EU Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Dakar (EUROCHAM), while the Delegate Office of German Industry and Commerce (AHK) in Côte d’Ivoire is also responsible for Senegal.

Bilateral development cooperation has been ongoing since Senegal attained independence in 1960. Germany provided special support between 2019 and 2023, in connection with its designation of Senegal as a reform partnership country, focusing on the spheres of labour law, land rights and funding opportunities for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as vocational training.

The two countries are currently engaged in intensive cooperation in the form of a climate and development partnership: By adopting what is known as a Just Energy Transition Partnership, Senegal and Germany, along with other partners such as the European Union and France, have agreed on a partnership that will place a particular emphasis on the further development of renewable energy sources.

The focus of efforts in Senegal that are supported by Germany was widened due to the COVID‑19 pandemic; these now include a reform of the pharmaceutical sector and the production of medicine and vaccines in the country.

Senegal is also an important partner in the fight against transnational organised crime and terrorism.

The Goethe-Institut in Senegal celebrated its 40th anniversary in December 2018; with its construction of an architecturally innovative building to house the Institute, it will gain further prominence in Dakar’s cultural scene. German ranks fourth among the foreign languages taught in schools.

Five German political foundations have offices in Dakar.

Town-twinning arrangements, school partnerships and partnerships between parishes and dioceses (Diocese of Thiès) bring together people from the two countries.

Bridges are also forged between the two countries through sport: Germany donates equipment and offers courses to Senegalese coaches in Germany (for football and athletics).