FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated the importance of France’s involvement in counterterrorism operations in Africa, highlighting the pivotal role it played in the survival of nations within the region. Speaking to the French weekly Le Point, Macron defended France’s engagement and its impact on countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
‘If we get an overview, France was right to enrol with the African countries to fight against terrorism,’ Macron expressed. ‘It is its (France’s) honour and responsibility.’
Linking French intervention to the survival of certain countries, Macron underscored, ‘If we were not engaged, via the operations Serval and Barkhane, there would be, undoubtedly, no more Mali, no more Burkina Faso, I am not even sure that there would still be Niger.’
He characterised these counterterrorism operations, conducted at the request of African states, as successful endeavours. Macron stressed that his policy, since 2017, has aimed to transition away from a solely security-oriented mindset.
‘The French policy, that I convey since 2017, is to get out of the security mentality,’ he asserted. ‘I believe in a partnership policy where France defends its interests, and supports Africa in its success. It is a real partnership, not a security condominium.’
However, the French presence has stirred controversy in Mali and Burkina Faso, two former French colonies. Protesters in these nations have rallied against the perceived influence of France within their borders.
Turning his attention to Niger, President Macron called for the ‘reinstatement of the constitutional order’ in the aftermath of the military’s ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26. He labelled the event as a ‘coup against democracy in Niger, Nigerien people, and counterterrorism.’
Niger’s stability was disrupted when Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, a former commander of the presidential guard, led a military intervention that ousted President Bazoum. France promptly initiated an operation to evacuate its citizens and other nationals from Niamey.
Last week, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) demanded the military to restore constitutional order in Niger, recognising the growing fragility of the country’s security situation since Bazoum’s removal.
In a related development, the African Union suspended Niger from its activities until the army relinquishes power, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
President Macron’s statements underscore the complex dynamics of France’s engagement in African nations, where counterterrorism efforts intertwine with geopolitical challenges and the push for democratic governance.