France is set to officially return its only military base in Ivory Coast during a ceremony scheduled for February 20. This development marks a significant step in the evolving military relations between the former colonial power and its West African ally. Sources familiar with the discussions confirmed the date, indicating that Ivory Coast is fully prepared for the transition.
Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara had announced the decision to withdraw French military presence in December as part of a broader trend in the region, where several countries are reassessing their security partnerships with France. The ceremony is expected to be attended by French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu alongside his Ivorian counterpart, Tene Birahima Ouattara.
This move comes in the wake of a significant reorganization of France’s military strategy in West Africa, particularly after the withdrawal of French troops from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, where military-led governments increasingly hostile to France have taken control. The French military base at Port-Bouet, located in the commercial hub of Abidjan, has been home to the 43rd BIMA marine infantry battalion, which has played a crucial role in efforts to combat jihadist activities in the region.
Approximately 1,000 French soldiers were deployed for this mission, supporting regional forces in a challenging security environment marked by frequent terrorist attacks. Despite the withdrawal, around 80 French troops are expected to remain at the Abidjan camp to continue conducting training exercises, ensuring some level of ongoing military cooperation.
Ivory Coast is an essential partner for France, particularly due to its status as the world’s largest cocoa producer and its substantial natural resources, which include oil, gas, and gold. This relationship remains strategically important for both nations, even as the dynamics of military cooperation continue to evolve in the region.
