Senegal to End Foreign Military Presence by 2025, Announces President Faye

In a significant shift in national defense policy, Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye declared that the country would end all foreign military presence by 2025.

The announcement, made in his New Year’s speech on Tuesday, marks a turning point in Senegal’s military strategy, signaling a move towards greater autonomy in its defense matters.

President Faye made the bold declaration, emphasizing that the presence of foreign military forces on Senegalese soil will cease within the next two years.

He instructed the Minister of the Armed Forces to create a new doctrine of defense and security that reflects this change.

“The end of all foreign military presence will be a key component of this new strategy,” Faye stated.

The President stressed that Senegal would continue to value its international partnerships but under a framework that treats all nations as strategic allies rather than hosting foreign military bases.

“All Senegal’s friends will be treated like strategic partners within the framework of an open, diversified and uninhibited cooperation,” he assured.

This move is seen as part of a broader effort to assert the country’s sovereignty and independence in military affairs.

The announcement follows a statement made by President Faye in November, where he reaffirmed that his government’s vision of sovereignty does not allow foreign military bases in the country.

The decision to remove foreign forces will have far-reaching implications on Senegal’s military alliances, particularly with France and the United States, both of which have had military agreements with the West African nation.

Senegal has long been a key player in regional security efforts, contributing troops to various peacekeeping missions across Africa.

However, this move reflects a growing desire among African nations to reduce reliance on foreign military powers and control their own defense strategies.

While President Faye’s announcement marks a significant policy shift, the government is expected to continue its diplomatic efforts to maintain strong relationships with strategic partners.

Experts believe this move could lead to a new chapter in Senegal’s military and diplomatic relations, one that prioritizes self-sufficiency and greater control over national defense.

As Senegal prepares to implement this new policy, many will be watching closely to see how it will affect the country’s security landscape and its relationships with key international partners.