2 days ago
5
French troops will soon begin departing from Ivory Coast, the West African country’s President Alassane Ouattara announced in his New Year address.
“We have decided on a coordinated and organised withdrawal of French troops,” said Mr Ouattara in the televised speech.
The departure will begin in January, according to the president, who also referred to the modernisation of the Ivorian army.
The location of the French naval infantry battalion in Port Bouet would, therefore, be handed over to the country’s own forces, he said.
Around 600 French soldiers are currently stationed in Ivory Coast.
Several West African states including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger had previously called on France to withdraw its troops.
France maintained a military presence in countries in the region even after the end of its colonial rule, being most recently involved in the fight against Islamist extremists.
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you.
Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation.
Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories —no paywalls, just quality journalism.
When the French troops leave the Ivory Coast, the only remaining French military bases in Africa will be in Gabon and Djibouti on the Horn of Africa.
(dpa/NAN)
Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999
English (US) ·