French President Emmanuel Macron recently outlined plans for a “triangular partnership” with Africa, aiming to establish new dynamics in French-African relations. This approach involves reshaping France’s influence across the continent by prioritizing cooperation in development, education, climate change, and economic partnerships. Macron seeks to address growing anti-French sentiment in Africa by positioning France as a more equal partner rather than a dominant force, a shift that includes scaling down military presence and transferring control of military bases to local forces.
This triangular partnership also emphasizes collaboration with third countries such as the United States or other European nations. Macron’s agenda acknowledges the competitive landscape with rising influences from China, Russia, and Turkey, and he hopes to promote French businesses by focusing on sustainable development and youth-focused initiatives. This reorientation is part of a broader French goal to reshape its image in Africa, aligning with efforts to acknowledge colonial history and promote cultural restitution, thus fostering goodwill and strengthening diplomatic ties.
