Jean-Marie Bockel, the envoy of French President Emmanuel Macron for Africa, met with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan to discuss the reorganization of the French military presence in Ivory Coast.
Bockel emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, highlighting existing initiatives such as support for Ivorian military operations in the north and intelligence cooperation. He stressed the importance of partnership and mutual commitment.
Regarding future developments, Bockel mentioned a shift in focus, with some aspects seeing reduction while others strengthen. He described this as a remodeling process aimed at fostering a positive partnership.
Earlier discussions between Bockel and President Ouattara focused on evolving military and security cooperation between the two countries. Bockel acknowledged the importance of ongoing dialogue to establish a new partnership.
Bockel also praised the progress made by the Ivorian defense and security forces, both in terms of quantity and quality. He expressed France’s commitment to further collaboration and exploration of new partnership opportunities.
With nearly 950 soldiers in Ivory Coast and a significant presence across sub-Saharan Africa, France aims to redeploy its forces based on recommendations to be presented by Bockel in July.
