France Says It No Longer Views Africa as Its Backyard

Officials said France no longer views Africa as its backyard where business leaders had guaranteed contracts or where it could make or unmake governments. The statement declares that era over since 2017. The remarks mark a formal acknowledgment of a shift in approach that officials said began eight years ago.

They come as France has sought to reset relations with African countries amid changing economic and political dynamics across the continent.

The updated stance reflects an effort to move away from earlier patterns of engagement. Under the previous framework, French business interests often secured contracts with less competition while officials maintained significant influence over political outcomes in several nations.

That model has faced growing criticism from African leaders and citizens who have called for more equal partnerships. The statement indicates that the change in perspective took effect in 2017 and remains in place.

France continues to maintain diplomatic, economic and security ties with multiple African countries. Trade, investment and military cooperation agreements remain active, though the tone and expectations attached to those relationships have evolved. The declaration signals that future dealings will be conducted on a different basis from the one that prevailed before 2017.

Further details on specific policy adjustments were not included in the reported statement.