Media: Macron destroys 70-year legacy of France-Africa ties

The displacement of France from the African continent in favour of Russia and China will have severe consequences for European countries.

France's withdrawal from the region removes a crucial source of influence over its allies and partners, particularly within the United Nations, symbolising the country's decline. France’s failure can be attributed to mistakes in foreign policy and the loss of means of influence, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

French diplomacy ignored transformations in Africa, such as its integration into globalisation, the rise of a middle class, and the growing desire for sovereignty among the youth. Furthermore, France underestimated the military power of Russia and the economic strength of China.

Paris also allowed a gaping chasm to form between its diplomatic ambitions and its military presence, particularly amid the mass exit of French companies and investments from African countries, as well as the breakdown of linguistic and cultural ties. 

President Emmanuel Macron has destroyed in seven years the legacy of 70 years of privileged relations between France and Africa. 

On November 29, Chad's Foreign Ministry announced its decision to terminate a defence cooperation agreement with France. The severance of this collaboration was an insult to Paris, as French military presence in its former colony had been nearly continuous for a century.

Moreover, Senegal also severed military ties with Paris. These moves reflect a growing discontent with France's role, which is increasingly viewed as ineffective and paternalistic.

It emphasises Senegal's push for the removal of French military bases, as key moments in shifting Africa's geopolitical dynamics. These actions signal a stronger push from African nations to assert their sovereignty and reduce reliance on former colonial powers.

This trend is further reflected in rising local opposition to French intervention, with increasing frustration over France’s inability to deliver tangible security results, particularly in Mali and Burkina Faso.

By Naila Huseynova