The president of France Emmanuel Macron is headed trip to four nations of Africa. He will visit Gabon, Angola, Congo, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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The analysts are viewing this visit as defining the role of the French colonial role to a new role as equal partners. The trip will also outline France’s economic and security strategy in the coming years.
France has been constant in showing their involvement and commitment to the issues in the African continent. The region is their priority.
The First-day visit to Gabon
Firstly, he will attend the environmental summit scheduled in Gabon. This is the world’s second-biggest tropical forest. The summit will discuss forest conservation and aim to get support and funding from the international community to preserve the ecosystem.
On the second day visit Gabon
This visit will also focus on the environmental issues affecting the African region. Therefore, there is a need to get international support to combat environmental and food security issues.
Third-day visit to Angola
The country is going through food security issues. Therefore, agriculture production from the criteria will help them reduce their reliance on imports.
The last stop is the Democratic Republic of Congo
The visit to Congo from 3 to 4 March 2023. The critical security issues will be discussed between the two nations. This will be his 18th trip to the African continent.
Rise of the Anti-colonial movement in Africa
There has been criticism from Africa the colonialism and the system of oppression. The youth of Africa are protesting against the foreign intervention of the military. Anti-France sentiments are high in former colonies like the Sahel Region.
Last year, France also withdrew its troops from Malli. This disappeared the France military presence in the region. Therefore, the pattern ship of equals approach. There is a need to create a new partnership as equal partners.
Last year also Macron visited the western African region to create a new partnership.
Influence of Russia and China in the African region
The growing influence of China and Russia on the continent is quite evident. Paris has also talked about Russia spreading disinformation. This is leading to anti-French sentiments.
The role of Russia is critical in the region due to the invasion of Ukraine. Therefore, the growing popularity of Russia will damage the interests of European countries.
The Chinese investment in the whole region has grown over years. Chinese companies are carrying huge infrastructural projects with huge debts. Though China stands neutral on Russia- Ukraine is neutral.
Today, The position of France as a strategic partner is weak. Therefore, France is adamant about renewing the partnership with Europe and Africa. France could be a strategic, security partner and fight other challenges in the continent.
Macron’s visit to China
The other visit will also define France’s role in the world. Macron is scheduled to visit China in April. The visit is to resolve the Russia- Ukraine conflict. This news comes after the release of a 12-point paper from China after the constant accusations of supplying weapons to Russia. This was a political statement from China to resolve the Russia- Ukraine conflict.
China wants to engage in peace talks between the two nations and put pressure on Russia to end the war.
