In keeping with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s position on reassessing Dakar’s ties with Paris, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has declared that foreign military bases in the nation will soon be closed.
Following President Faye’s previous position on the deployment of French forces in Senegal, Sonko announced in a General Policy Declaration on Friday that Senegal would close its foreign military sites.
President Faye expressed his dislike of French troops in Senegal in an interview with France 2 in late November. He also emphasised the need to review current defence accords, namely the 2012 pact that permits France to keep 350 soldiers on Senegalese territory.
Faye asked a critical question as she considered Senegal’s colonial past: “Would the French ever consider Senegalese troops stationed in France?”
He maintained that a comprehensive revision of these unfair accords is necessary.
Faye stated that no deadline has been established, but he has not ruled out the possibility of French forces leaving.
To ensure a seamless transition, the 2012 treaty stipulates that a six-month notice period is necessary to terminate the agreement.
In exchange for military training and logistical assistance, this pact gives France particular military stations in Senegal.
Sonko also described a change in Senegal’s diplomatic strategy, stressing the need to resume conventional methods of diplomatic representation.
The government intends to improve relations with other African countries and give career diplomats priority.
