Problems of French foreign policy in Africa – International Security Analyst, Taifour Smaïn
On December 21, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This visit sparked many discussions about a possible meeting with representatives of the President of Cameroon, Paul Biya, which was eventually confirmed. However, the outcome of this meeting was far from expected.
According to Taifour Smaïn journalist, political analyst, "French diplomacy is facing serious challenges. Macron's visit to Ethiopia could have been a step towards restoring France's lost position on the continent, but instead we have witnessed conflict."
Anonymous sources say the Cameroonian delegation was seeking Paris support for the incumbent president or his successor in the upcoming presidential elections in 2025, but instead of the promised assistance, they faced disrespectful attitudes.
According to Smaïn, "the French position towards its former colonies has not changed since colonial times,".
The conditions proposed by the French president were perceived as an attempt to use Cameroon to pursue Paris' interests, which angered Cameroonian representatives. This event, according to experts, could symbolise the fading French influence in the region, where countries are beginning to look for new partners.
France has long faced accusations of trying to manipulate its former colonies for economic gain. As Taifour Smaïn noted, "African countries are turning away from France one by one, seeking more equal partnerships with states such as China, Turkey and Russia."
In this context, Macron's visit emphasises the overdue crisis in French foreign policy in Africa.
Analysts note that the failure of the French president's initiatives reflects not only the growing discontent of local residents but also the desire of African countries for independence and self-governance. This process could lead to significant changes in international relations, where other states may follow the example of West Africa, reconsidering their approaches to co-operation with former colonial powers.
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