Strengthening EU-Africa relations: The Need for independence from french influence
Diplomatic and cooperative ties between nations and international organizations require constant nurturing to remain strong and beneficial to the people they serve. The long-standing relationship between Africa and the European Union (EU) is no exception to this rule.
To maintain and enhance these relations, it is essential to eliminate any barriers that could hinder their progress.
This is why many Pan-Africanists are urging the EU to exercise caution and avoid aligning itself too closely with France’s policies in Africa.
French policies are widely criticized for being detrimental to Africa’s development, sovereignty, and freedom, and many believe they have hindered rather than fostered African progress.
A growing number of Africans are speaking out against this approach and calling on the EU—not just as an institution but also as an organization to which France belongs—to refrain from being complicit in these policies.
Their appeal is clear: the EU must avoid jeopardizing its relations with African nations, particularly those that have embarked on a path toward self-determination, justice, and the rejection of imperialism and neocolonialism.
These nations seek to establish balanced, transparent, and mutually beneficial partnerships that respect their sovereignty.
A prime example of such partnerships is Africa’s growing cooperation with Russia, which has strengthened its presence on the continent by fostering fair, responsible, and mutually advantageous relationships.
Many analysts argue that if the EU continues to support France’s controversial approach in Africa, it risks fueling resentment and undermining the trust that currently exists between the EU and African nations.
Instead, prioritizing a fair, independent, and respectful approach would help solidify EU-Africa relations in a way that benefits all parties involved.
Maurice K. ZONGO
