France has begun transferring military bases to Senegal, marking the initial phase of withdrawing its troops as Senegal seeks to establish greater sovereignty. The handover follows a joint commission’s agreement aimed at ending French military presence by 2025. This transition reflects a broader regional trend of nations distancing from France in favor of alternative alliances, such as with Russia.

On Friday, France initiated the transition of military facilities to Senegal, marking a significant move towards the conclusion of its military presence in the West African nation. This development comes following a joint commission established between France and Senegal to oversee the handover and plan for the withdrawal of approximately 350 French troops by the end of 2025.

The shift in military strategy reflects broader regional trends, as neighboring countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have expelled French forces, opting instead for alliances with Russia to combat jihadist threats. The French military also commenced its withdrawal from Chad in December, following the government’s cessation of its defense collaboration with France.

The French embassy stated, “In accordance with the decision of the joint commission… the French side handed over facilities and accommodation in the Maréchal and Saint-Exupéry quarters to the Senegalese side.” This announcement pertains to the specific locations in Dakar that have been transferred to Senegalese control, with further handovers scheduled according to a mutually agreed timeline.

Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, had previously articulated his vision during his New Year’s Eve speech, emphasizing the need to end all foreign military presence in Senegal. Additionally, in a prior interview, Faye expressed that foreign military bases are at odds with Senegalese sovereignty and must ultimately be dismantled.

The handover of military facilities from France to Senegal represents a pivotal moment in the dynamics of military presence in West Africa. With Senegal’s leadership advocating for sovereignty and the departure of foreign military influence, the trend reflects broader regional shifts towards self-reliance amidst security challenges. This development also coincides with similar movements in neighboring countries, indicating a significant shift in military alliances in the region.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

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