More information about Burkina Faso is available on the Burkina Faso Page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet.

U.S.-BURKINA FASO RELATIONS

The United States established diplomatic relations with Burkina Faso (then called Upper Volta) in 1960, following its independence from France. U.S. relations with Burkina Faso are excellent, thanks in part to strong U.S. support during the 2014-2015 political transition. In addition to regional peace and stability, U.S. interests in Burkina Faso are to promote continued democratization and greater respect for human rights, and to encourage sustainable economic development. Countering terrorism and strengthening border security are of growing importance in Burkina Faso. The United States and Burkina Faso engage in a number of military training and exchange programs, including in counterterrorism and peacekeeping operations. The country is contributing to the support of U.S. efforts in the Sahel. Burkina Faso is a partner in the Africa Contingency Operations Training and Assistance program for peacekeeping and is a member of the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership. In 2018, Burkina Faso was nominated for a State Partnership with the District of Columbia’s National Guard. Burkina Faso will host the AFRICOM-led military exercise Flintlock in 2019. The military exercise aims to increase the capacity of host nation special operations forces, as well as their interoperability with forces from African and Western partner nations.

U.S. Assistance to Burkina Faso

New development assistance to Burkina Faso will build on the Burkinabe government’s demonstration of political will and dedication of resources to address the increase in violent extremist organizations (VEOs).

Other U.S. development assistance to Burkina Faso focuses on increasing food security, (especially for mothers and children in food deficit areas), improving education, strengthening malaria control, family planning reproductive health services, and addressing threats of meningitis, influenza and other communicable diseases. Burkina Faso was named a focus country for the President’s Malaria Initiative. U.S. assistance also aims to increase production of high-potential agricultural zones, enhance access to markets, and increase investment in land and rural productivity.

In December 2016, the Millennium Challenge Corporation selected Burkina Faso to develop a second compact. The compact is still being developed but MCC and Burkina Faso are pursuing an energy-focused program that includes infrastructure, institutional strengthening, and skills development activities. The Compact’s approval is projected for late 2019.

Bilateral Economic Relations

Burkina Faso is eligible for preferential trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. U.S. exports to Burkina Faso include machinery, vehicles, and rice. The top U.S. import from Burkina Faso is edible fruits and nuts (cashews). Investment possibilities include Burkina Faso’s renewable energy, mining, communications, and security sectors. The United States has signed a trade and investment framework agreement with the West African Economic and Monetary Union, of which Burkina Faso is a member.

Burkina Faso’s Membership in International Organizations

Burkina Faso and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization.

Bilateral Representation

Principal embassy officials are listed in the Department’s Key Officers List.

Burkina Faso maintains an embassy in the United States at 2340 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202-332-5577).

More information about Burkina Faso is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here:

CIA World Factbook Burkina Faso Page
U.S. Embassy
USAID Burkina Faso Page 
History of U.S. Relations With Burkina Faso
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative Country Page 
U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics 
Export.gov International Offices Page 
Millennium Challenge Corporation: Burkina Faso 
Travel Information

U.S. Department of State

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