As France scales back its military presence in West and Central Africa, it remains to be seen how this shift will impact its strategic role in the region. Despite the broader withdrawal, the French government has confirmed it will keep 80 troops in Ivory Coast for training purposes.
France has historically maintained a close military relationship with Ivory Coast, particularly since the 2011 presidential crisis. However, recent military coups across several African nations have fueled growing anti-French sentiment, challenging its influence. At the same time, Russia’s presence in the region has been expanding.
France has returned its sole military base in Ivory Coast to local authorities, marking an end to decades of French presence at the site. https://t.co/f9aKxn3XVJ pic.twitter.com/OU6N3CO9rR
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) February 20, 2025
French Minister of Defence Sébastien Lecornu stated that the remaining troops will form a joint detachment, adapting to the evolving needs of Ivory Coast. The primary focus of this contingent will be training, ensuring continued cooperation between the two nations.
This decision, announced on Thursday, reflects France’s effort to maintain some level of engagement in the region while reducing its overall footprint.
💬 "Il était évident que notre relation de défense devait évoluer"
Sébastien Lecornu, ministre des Armées, a pris part à la cérémonie officielle ce jeudi pour la rétrocession de la base militaire d’Abidjan aux autorités de Côte d'Ivoire pic.twitter.com/aEDEkKajDV
— BFMTV (@BFMTV) February 20, 2025