Macron announced the end of the era of “French Africa”
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The period of the “French Africa” policy is over. This statement was made by French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to Gabon.
“We are connected by a common history here – in Gabon – and, let’s not hide, the history of Franceafrique (“French Africa”. – Ed.). This era of Franceafrique is over,” he said (quote according to TASS).
Macron stressed that Paris has no intention of influencing Gabon’s domestic politics. According to him, the visit testifies to friendship and respect for the country and people. The French leader specified that he plans to cooperate with Gabon on climate, economic, industrial and other issues.
Commenting on the presence of French troops in the republic, Macron said that he had decided “on a new strategy” regarding military bases in Africa. He explained that it was about adapting the troops to the needs of Gabon. France has no plans to withdraw the military from the region, Macron stressed.
At the end of February, the President of France announced plans to significantly reduce the country’s military presence in Africa. We are talking about reducing the number of French armed forces and increasing the number of Africans in French bases in the region, he said.
France last August brought out all their troops participating in Operation Barkhane are from Mali. In February 2023 on reducing the influence of France in Africa said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. According to him, Paris reacts nervously to this process. At the same time, Russia is strengthening relations with African countries, the minister noted.
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