French President Emmanuel Macron's comments regarding Africa's gratitude for France's military interventions have been met with vehement criticism from leaders in Senegal and Chad. Speaking at an ambassadors' conference in Paris, Macron suggested that Sahelian nations failed to acknowledge France's role in stabilizing the region against militant threats.
Macron Faces Backlash for 'Ungrateful' Comments on Africa’s Security
Macron Faces Backlash for 'Ungrateful' Comments on Africa’s Security
French President's remarks spark strong reactions from African leaders amid troop withdrawals.
Chad's Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah condemned Macron's remarks, stating they reflect a "contemptuous attitude" towards Africa. He emphasized the need for French leaders to respect African people and their contributions. Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko echoed this sentiment, asserting that France's historical actions have contributed to destabilization in countries like Libya, undermining its credibility in securing the region.
Macron, while announcing France's strategic shift in Africa, asserted that many African states owe their sovereignty to French military support, sparking disagreements from leaders who argue that true sovereignty stems from their own efforts. Both Sonko and Koulamallah highlighted the sacrifices made by African soldiers during the world wars, countering Macron's narrative.
As France's influence wanes in West Africa, recent security agreements have been scrapped by Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, with a pivot towards new alliances. The long-standing partnership between Chad and France is under re-evaluation, with officials citing a need to redefine strategic priorities in light of increasing regional instability.
This situation raises crucial questions regarding post-colonial relationships and the future of military collaborations in Africa.
Macron, while announcing France's strategic shift in Africa, asserted that many African states owe their sovereignty to French military support, sparking disagreements from leaders who argue that true sovereignty stems from their own efforts. Both Sonko and Koulamallah highlighted the sacrifices made by African soldiers during the world wars, countering Macron's narrative.
As France's influence wanes in West Africa, recent security agreements have been scrapped by Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, with a pivot towards new alliances. The long-standing partnership between Chad and France is under re-evaluation, with officials citing a need to redefine strategic priorities in light of increasing regional instability.
This situation raises crucial questions regarding post-colonial relationships and the future of military collaborations in Africa.
