French President Emmanuel Macron faced criticism from African leaders in Senegal and Chad for suggesting that nations in the Sahel have been ungrateful for France’s military support. Macron insisted that without French intervention, these nations would not be sovereign today. Both countries’ leaders emphasized mutual respect and the historical sacrifices of Africans while expressing concerns over France’s dwindling influence in the region.

French President Emmanuel Macron has faced backlash from Senegal and Chad for his remarks suggesting that African nations have been ungrateful for France’s military support in combating jihadist insurgencies. During a conference in Paris, Macron claimed that no Sahelian nation could consider itself sovereign without France’s intervention. This statement came as France continues its withdrawal of troops from several West African countries.

In response, Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah expressed that Macron’s comments displayed a contemptuous attitude towards Africa, urging French leaders to acknowledge the sacrifices of African nations. Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko also criticized Macron, asserting that France has historically destabilized African regions, as evidenced by its involvement in Libya, which has had negative repercussions for regional security.

Macron’s assertions were made amid a re-evaluation of France’s strategic interests in Africa. French troops were first deployed to Mali in 2013 to counter an Islamist insurgency, later expanding to include missions in Niger and Burkina Faso. The French president remarked, “I think someone forgot to say thank you…none of them would be a sovereign country today if the French army hadn’t deployed in the region.”

Prime Minister Sonko contended that Senegal’s decision to ask French troops to leave was a matter of national sovereignty, stating that there had been no negotiations regarding the closure of military bases. Both he and Koulamallah highlighted the contributions of African soldiers to France during the world wars, arguing that these sacrifices should not be overlooked.

Recent political dynamics show that Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast have terminated their security agreements with France, while Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have expelled French forces following coups. France’s influence in the region is waning, facing allegations of neo-colonialism and exploitative practices in its relationships with former colonies. Chad’s foreign minister indicated that France’s contributions have primarily served its own strategic interests rather than addressing local needs.

The recent comments made by President Macron have sparked significant outrage among African leaders, particularly from Senegal and Chad. These leaders emphasized the need for mutual respect and recognition of African sacrifices, while also questioning France’s historical involvement in the region. As former colonies navigate their independence and security partnerships, the changing geopolitical landscape underscores the complexities of post-colonial relationships.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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