OUAGADOUGOU: The President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor©, emphasized the necessity for African countries to terminate military cooperation agreements in order to establish autonomous military forces. Speaking at the conclusion of the national flag-raising ceremony, President Traor© asserted that breaking away from existing military partnerships is crucial for Africa to strengthen its defense capabilities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Captain Ibrahim Traor© criticized the reluctance of several African leaders to embrace this approach, suggesting that many have yet to realize its importance. The President's remarks came in response to comments by French President Emmanuel Macron, which Traor© described as misleading.
"This is just a smokescreen for the people," he warned, urging vigilance among the populace. He elaborated that although traditional military presence might appear to diminish, foreign forces would likely transform into security companies to safeguard their interests, thus maintaining a strategic foothold in the region.
President Traor© further acknowledged the decisive actions of Chadian leaders in rejecting such military agreements, leading to the withdrawal of French troops from Chad. He highlighted that while there may seem to be a dissolution of military presence, it is more a strategic shift rather than a complete departure.