Burkina Faso is among the largest recipients of development aid in West Africa. The new aid terminology emphasizes partnership and a sectoral approach. Yet, recent research suggests more continuity than change in the aid relationship. Projects persist. Funding and technical assistance agencies cooperate more but adhere to their interests, priorities, and procedures. Though rarely discussed explicitly, national and institutional interests remain important. Collectively, agencies apparently continue to instruct more than listen and thus to undermine the dialogue and partnership they claim to construct. Heavy reliance on external funding makes it difficult for the government to assert and maintain an independent posture.