Ivory Coast's Independence Milestone: French Military Exit

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara announced the withdrawal of French forces from the nation, marking a step towards military independence. This move continues France's military reduction in West Africa, with troop numbers dropping from 2,200 to 600. The decision follows regional military coups and anti-French sentiment.

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has disclosed that French military forces will withdraw from the nation, signifying a crucial step for the region's military autonomy. The announcement, made during his end-of-year address, underscores the advancement of the Ivory Coast's own armed forces.

Ouattara emphasized the 'coordinated and organised' withdrawal of French troops as part of a broader regional strategy. His statement aligns with France's ongoing process of scaling down its military footprint in West and Central Africa, from a total of around 2,200 troops, aiming to retain only 600.

France's military disengagement follows its withdrawal from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger amidst political upheavals and rising anti-French sentiment. Chad's abrupt termination of its defense pact with France further punctuates the shifting dynamics of African and French military relations.