France Faces Backlash Over West Africa Engagement Amid Sahel Political Changes
During the 'Africa Forward' Summit, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed concerns about France's diplomatic engagement in West Africa, particularly in light of recent political changes in the Sahel region. Macron emphasized that despite the exclusion of certain governments due to military takeovers, West Africa remains central to France's diplomatic efforts. He highlighted the participation of leaders from countries like Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Gabon in the summit, while acknowledging the absence of three Sahel states due to disruptions in constitutional governance. Macron reiterated France's commitment to engaging with West African civil society, including intellectuals and artists, even from countries under military rule. 
