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With migration and security being top concerns in Germany, Foreign Minister Alena Bok recently embarked on a diplomatic mission to West Africa. This strategic move aims to bolster Berlin's relationships with key partners in the region, specifically targeting Sagal and Ivory Coast. But is this merely a charity gesture, or does Germany have deeper interests at play?
Bok's visit to Sagal was met with praise for the country's democratic transition after a tumultuous election earlier this year. Promises of future economic cooperation were exchanged, hinting at Germany's vested interest in the region's economic growth and opportunities, especially in green technologies and infrastructure expansion. Security, too, was a primary agenda item, given the unrest and extremist violence that have destabilized neighboring countries, displacing around 3 million people in the wider Sahel region.
In Ivory Coast, Bok visited the International Academy for Combating Terrorism, underscoring the importance of security cooperation. This year, Germany withdrew its troops from neighboring Mali and is closing its last air base there. Military regimes in these countries have sought assistance from Russian military personnel, but Germany remains committed to fostering relationships with other partners in the region.
Nations across the Sahel are leaning towards Turkey, China, and Russia, and Bok made it clear that Germany's interests in the region extend beyond charity work. Collaboration with Sagal and Ivory Coast is in Germany's hard security interests. During her visit, the Ivorian president advocated for increased humanitarian aid to help those affected by conflict, highlighting the risks posed to Ivory Coast, especially at its northern border, which is already receiving more than 60,000 refugees.
This diplomatic mission comes at a challenging time as the influence of the West in the Sahel region wanes while other forces gain ground. Analyst Chris Ogum emphasizes the crucial role of Sagal and Ivory Coast in the context of political stability and economic development in West Africa. Both countries are economic lynchpins in the region, with Ivory Coast being the largest economy in Francophone West Africa and Sagal retaining its security, economic, and trade significance.
Germany's engagement with West Africa goes beyond mere charity; it's a strategic investment in a region that holds significant economic and security interests for Berlin. As the global balance of power shifts, such diplomatic efforts become increasingly important to maintain influence and stability in key regions.
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