The upcoming closure of foreign bars, announced in his DPG by the Senegalese Prime Minister, is part of a context of reassessment of relations with France, underlined by the recent declarations of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
During his General Policy Statement this Friday, Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister of Senegal, announced the closure of foreign military bases. This statement follows President Faye’s recent positions on the French military presence in Senegal.
In an interview with France 2 at the end of November, Faye expressed her disavowal of the station of French troops in Senegal, stressing the importance of re-examining the defense agreements in force, notably that of 2012, which allows France to maintain 350 soldiers in the country.
The President recalled the legacy of colonization, asking a provocative question: “As a Frenchman, would you consider Senegalese soldiers stationed in France? » He suggested that these unbalanced agreements require a thorough overhaul.
If Faye did not rule out a departure of French troops, he clarified that no timetable had yet been set. Under the 2012 treaty, six months’ notice is required to denounce the agreement, allowing for a smooth transition. This treaty grants France specific military installations in Senegal, while providing the country with military training and logistical support.
Sonko also spoke of a change in Senegal’s diplomatic policy, emphasizing a return to tradition in diplomatic representation. The government now wants to favor career diplomats and strengthen its relations with African countries.
AC/SF/APA
Senegal
