Ivory Coast has taken control of the last French military base in the country, marking a significant shift in both countries’ defense relationship. At a press conference, the Ivorian Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara announced that although most French forces are departing, about 80 troops will remain to advise and train the Ivorian military. Ouattara emphasized that evolving security threats require forward-looking partnerships as opposed to colonial era-based relationships. The move follows similar actions across West Africa, where local leaders have increasingly pushed for the withdrawal of French troops. With France now largely confined to Djibouti and Gabon, the region is set for a dramatic transformation in its defense dynamics.
Source: VOA