France eyes Djibouti base as key ‘projection point’ in Africa

ANKARA

French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that he wants the military base in Djibouti to once again be defined as a “projection point” for his country’s various missions.

During a visit to the French military base in the East African country, Macron highlighted the changing dynamics in the region.

“Our role in Africa is evolving because the world in Africa is evolving-public opinion is changing, and governments are changing,” he said.

France has begun closing its military bases in several African countries as part of an effort to rebuild relationships with nations across the continent. Macron described the decision as an attempt to establish partnerships based on mutual respect.

“We must change the logic that fuels uncertainty in the countries where our bases are located,” Macron said, referring to growing anti-French sentiment in some of France’s former colonies.

Over the past two years, France has ended defense cooperation agreements with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, withdrawing its troops from these nations.

In September 2023, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States and announced the creation of a joint military force to counter spiraling security challenges posed in their countries by terrorist groups.

Most recently, Chad joined the list, deciding to terminate its military cooperation with France. French troops began leaving Chad on Friday, with the withdrawal of the 1,000 soldiers stationed there expected to conclude by Jan. 31.

France still maintains permanent military bases in Djibouti, Gabon, Ivory Coast, and Senegal. Djibouti, home to 1,500 French troops, is considered France’s most significant military hub in Africa.

Smaller contingents are stationed in Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Senegal, with 600, 350, and 350 personnel, respectively.

Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, is strategically significant due to its position at the southern entrance to the Red Sea and its coastline along the Indian Ocean.

• Africa
• Djibouti.
• Emmanuel Macron
• France