Ahmad 
The French president’s special envoy to Africa, Jean-Marie Bockel, said that France is currently seeking to renew relations with the countries of the African continent and build a positive image, after the end of the concept of “French Africa”.
In an interview, Boukil stressed that the concept of “French Africa” is a thing of the past and to say otherwise would mean “blindness and lies”.
Boukiel pointed out that France’s main goal is currently to renew ties with African countries in economic, cultural, educational, humanitarian and investment aspects, adding that defense and security cooperation is only part of these relations.
In another context, Boukeel stressed that the assessment of military capabilities includes training and defense cooperation with various parties.
As for the French military presence in Chad, Gabon, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire, Boukiel explained that this presence aims to develop, focusing on aspects of partnership and development.
As part of the expected changes, media reports indicated a reduction in the number of French troops after French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments to significantly reduce the military presence on the African continent.