By Redaction ARPS Media with France 24 and other Agencies
France returned its last two military bases in Senegal on Thursday, marking the end of a 65-year military presence in the country. Senegalese General Mbaye Cissé and French Chief of Command Pascal Ianni attended the handover ceremony.
Senegal aims to end foreign military presence by 2025, as emphasized by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, amidst rising anti-French sentiment. This move follows mass protests in 2021 against foreign influence and historical grievances related to France’s actions in the region.
The closure of the bases is part of a broader trend in West Africa, where countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have shifted their alliances away from France. Currently, only Djibouti remains as France’s permanent military presence in Africa.
Read more at: France hands back last military bases in Senegal, ending 65-year troop presence
