France returned its sole military base in Ivory Coast to local authorities, signaling a shift in military relationships as African nations seek greater sovereignty. Despite this change, both France and Ivory Coast expressed intentions to maintain strong ties, with cooperation continuing in training and anti-terrorism efforts. This development aligns with a broader trend in West Africa as countries reassess their military partnerships with France.

On Thursday, France officially returned its sole military base in Ivory Coast to local authorities, signifying a shift in military relations as African nations increasingly seek to strengthen their sovereignty. This handover ceremony included the signing of a document by the French and Ivorian defense ministers, complemented by the Ivorian flag being raised on the base’s parade ground.

The transfer is set against a backdrop of several West African countries reducing their ties with France. However, both nations have expressed the intention to maintain strong bilateral relations. Ivorian Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara characterized the event as a new era of friendship and strategic collaboration between the two countries.

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu remarked on the necessity for evolving military relations in a changing world, heralding the base’s handover as a “historic moment.” He emphasized that while French military presence would diminish, it would not cease entirely, reinforcing the ongoing professional relationship.

In anticipation of this transition, approximately 100 Ivorian paratroopers have already joined the base, and both countries have conducted joint military exercises. The presence of around 1,000 French soldiers in Ivory Coast has included support in the fight against jihadist threats in the region.

The return of the base comes amidst France’s reevaluation of its military presence across Africa, particularly following troop withdrawals from countries like Mali and Burkina Faso. Analysts note that there is a strong push for sovereignty within Ivory Coast, aligning with a wider trend in the region.

While the withdrawal will be gradual and extend into 2025, an estimated 80 French soldiers will remain to assist with training and support. The Port-Bouet military camp has been central to Ivory Coast’s stability since its inception in 1978, with French forces playing a critical role in recovery efforts during past national crises.

In conclusion, the handover of the Port-Bouet military base from France to Ivory Coast marks a significant shift toward enhancing the latter’s sovereignty and independence from former colonial ties. While the military relationship is evolving, both countries emphasize continued collaboration in various domains, including intelligence and anti-terrorism efforts. This transition reflects broader trends across West Africa, where nations are reassessing their military partnerships with former colonizers, thereby asserting their sovereignty.

Original Source: www.france24.com

Related posts:

France’s Diminishing Influence in Africa: Chad and Senegal End Cooperation Agreements Ivory Coast Announces Withdrawal of French Troops, Reflects Changing Military Ties Chad Terminates Defense Agreement with France to Reassert Sovereignty Ivory Coast Orders French Troops Withdrawal, Signaling a Shift in Military Ties