In an interview with France 2, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye questioned the French military
presence in Senegal, stressing the need to reassess this cooperation, governed by a 2012 defense treaty, in a changing geopolitical environment.
With France 2, Senegalese President Faye raised the issue of the French military presence in Senegal, in a context of reassessment of defense agreements in Africa.
This statement comes at a time when 350 French soldiers are currently stationed in Senegal, under a bilateral
treaty signed in 2012.
President Faye recalled the historical impact of colonisation, asking a provocative question: “As a Frenchman, would you consider Senegalese soldiers stationed in France?”
According to him, the perception of an asymmetry in these agreements highlights the need for both parties to
critically reexamine these historical relations.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye did not rule out a departure of French troops, although he specified that no timetable had yet been set. In accordance with Article 21 of the defense treaty, each party may denounce the agreement by written notification, with effect six months after receipt.
This period is intended to ensure an orderly transition and compliance with current commitments.
The 2012 treaty grants French forces exclusive facilities, including the Ouakam camp, as well as rights to conduct joint training. In return, Senegal benefits from priority access to military training in France and logistical support for its armed forces.
However, movements of French troops outside the defined zones require prior authorisation from the Senegalese authorities.
The Senegalese president also stressed the importance for his country to diversify its international relations, by turning to Asian, Middle Eastern and South-South partners.
“France must understand that the environment has become more competitive,” he said, while calling Paris
a “strategic partner.”
AC/fss/as/APA