In a conversation with PREMIUM TIMES, Marc Fonbaustier, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, elaborated on France's diplomatic ties with Nigeria and Francophone African nations, the shifting nature of transatlantic relationships, the controversies surrounding the US Board of Peace, and France's pursuit of strategic autonomy amidst changing global contexts.
This interview took place prior to the onset of the US-Israeli conflict concerning Iran, thus it did not cover topics related to the ongoing war.
PT: Regarding the Board of Peace, what led France to reject the US invitation despite supporting its formation in the Security Council?
Ambassador Fonbaustier responded: "We supported Resolution 2803 within the specific context of the Gaza situation. Although the US has formally invited France to join the Board of Peace, we have yet to follow through, as the objectives and legal frameworks of the Board remain ambiguous."
Fonbaustier emphasized that France remains committed to the United Nations as a fundamental pillar of effective multilateralism grounded in international law, equality among sovereign nations, and peaceful conflict resolution. Currently, the Board of Peace appears to be significantly distant from adhering to the principles of the UN Charter, a sentiment echoed recently by French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.
He noted that while the Board is a groundbreaking initiative, thorough legal, rational, and political analysis is necessary before any participation is contemplated. He asserted that sovereign nations should not be coerced into joining such initiatives.
PT: Do you believe the US’s recent actions regarding Greenland challenge the EU's strategic autonomy?
Fonbaustier remarked, "The US's recent stance concerning Greenland does indeed serve as a credibility test for Europe. The French President recently articulated the need for a 'strategic wake-up call for all of Europe' in discussions with Greenland's and Denmark's Prime Ministers. This situation underscores the importance of strategic autonomy, a concept France has championed since the mid-1990s, reflecting General de Gaulle's commitment to national independence."
PT: Have recent US actions influenced France's foreign policy decisions?
Fonbaustier noted that there has been a longstanding kinship between the two nations since the American War of Independence, where France played a pivotal role in supporting the US. "Today, we are allies, which does not equate to total alignment. We reserve the right to disagree, much as we did concerning the 2003 Iraq War," he added.
He also expressed that recent US developments have validated France’s assertion that Europe must take charge of its security rather than rely excessively on external allies. The highlighting of the US National Security Strategy signifies the necessity for the EU to adopt a more autonomous strategic outlook.
PT: What strategies has the EU considered to bring an end to the Russia- Ukraine conflict?
Ambassador Fonbaustier indicated that France reiterated its dedicated commitment to a just and enduring peace for Ukraine during the Coalition of the Willing's latest meeting in January. He called for Russia to adhere to good faith negotiations, as it has previously undermined peace accords over the past fifteen years.
He outlined five core priorities aimed at concluding Russia's aggression: monitoring ceasefire mechanisms led by the US with contributions from other states; bolstering Ukrainian armed forces as the frontline of defense; extending a multinational force to provide reassurances post-ceasefire; legally solidifying agreements to protect Ukraine from future hostilities; and offering economic and reconstruction aid alongside long-term defense partnerships with Ukraine.
PT: France's influence in Francophone Africa appears to be waning, especially since the loss of its former colonies. How is France responding to this loss and looking to strengthen relations?
Fonbaustier explained, "Your question touches on our partnerships with African nations. It is vital to remember that there are 54 African countries with which we have enduring relationships. We deal with these as sovereign nations, meaning the dynamics in the Sahel do not define our entire relationship across the continent. There are indeed countries that have sought France's support against terrorism, such as Mali—this is reversible should those nations request our withdrawal."
"Historically, we also align with our sovereign principles, as evidenced by President de Gaulle’s request for US troop withdrawal from France in 1966. Our engagement in Africa embodies balanced relationships with Francophone, Anglophone, and Lusophone states. Contrary to certain views, the trend is upward; French investment in Africa is significant—second only to the UK. France also stands as the leading destination for African students outside the continent. Claims of a French retraction in Africa are fundamentally flawed."
PT: What ongoing efforts is France making to mend ties with its former West African colonies?
Fonbaustier responded pointedly: "It's unfortunate and unjust to make France a scapegoat for the challenges some nations face over governance. Everything has been outlined by President Macron since 2017 in his Ouagadougou speech, which paved the way for a partnership based on equality and mutual respect."
Fonbaustier concluded that France actively cooperates with responsible governments and communities to tackle combined challenges, particularly with Nigeria, which he labeled as a quintessential partner in France's African strategy. "We aim to collaborate with clarity and without any hidden agendas, mutual respect is essential as we work through common obstacles."
PT: How does France respond to Niger's allegations that it, along with Benin and Ivory Coast, orchestrated an attack on Niamey’s airport?
Addressing this, Fonbaustier stated, "These claims, like numerous others, are unfounded. France remains deeply committed to cooperating with West Africa in combating terrorism, evidenced by the loss of 58 of our soldiers in response to requests from West African states. Over 250 French individuals have also been victims of jihadist violence since 2012."
The ambassador highlighted the shared interests between Europe and West Africa in fostering stability and prosperity by rooting out terrorism from safe havens.
PT: France's relationship with Nigeria appears to be strengthening. President Bola Tinubu has made multiple visits to France. Is this growth a reaction to France losing influence in its traditional Francophone partners?
Fonbaustier dismissed this notion, stating, "Historically, our pivot toward English-speaking nations began long before. Notably, discussions from the 1990s under Presidents Mitterrand and Chirac underscored our need to bolster presence beyond former British and Dutch colonies."
He elaborated that since Nigeria transitioned back to civilian governance in 2000, ties have developed positively, with the first state visit by President Obasanjo to France marking a significant moment. "The strengthening of our partnership with Nigeria precedes any perceived decline in relations with other nations. It forms a part of a broader vision, taking into account Nigeria's pivotal role within West Africa and beyond."
Fonbaustier also articulated the broader goals of diversifying trade relationships with Nigeria beyond petroleum and gas, emphasizing the importance of agriculture and cultural industries that contribute significantly to job creation and value addition. Ambassador Fonbaustier concluded by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and understanding the nuances of historical ties with former colonies while looking towards a common future with African nations.
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