Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – In a recent development, the Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, has categorically stated that Operation Barkhane is not a failure. This comes in response to an open letter from around a hundred senators addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing concerns regarding the future of the operation.
Operation Barkhane, which began in 2014, aims to combat terrorism and stabilize the Sahel region of Africa, specifically Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The operation involves the deployment of thousands of French troops to combat Islamist militants who have been a source of instability in the region.
Minister Lecornu’s statement comes at a critical time as questions have been raised about the effectiveness of the operation. In the open letter, the senators criticized the lack of progress made by Operation Barkhane, arguing that it has failed to achieve its objectives. However, the Minister of the Armed Forces vehemently disagrees.
According to Minister Lecornu, Operation Barkhane has been successful in preventing terrorist attacks and has significantly weakened terrorist organizations operating in the Sahel. He emphasized the importance of the operation, stating, “We have made progress, and it is essential to continue our efforts to ensure stability in the region.”
In response to the senators’ concerns, the Minister highlighted the complexity of the situation in the Sahel, acknowledging that there are challenges to overcome. He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach that combines military actions with sustainable development initiatives to address the root causes of terrorism in the region.
Industry experts have also shown support for the Minister’s stance. One expert, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “Operation Barkhane cannot be evaluated solely based on short-term outcomes. It is a long-term commitment that requires patience and perseverance.”
Nevertheless, critics argue that Operation Barkhane alone cannot solve the underlying issues in the Sahel region. They emphasize the need for coordination with local governments and regional partners to ensure a holistic approach that includes economic development, governance reforms, and improved social services.
While the debate surrounding Operation Barkhane continues, it is clear that the Minister of the Armed Forces remains steadfast in his belief that the operation is far from a failure. With ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and stabilize the Sahel, the French government remains committed to the operation’s objectives.
As the situation in the Sahel remains dynamic, it is crucial for stakeholders to reassess and adapt strategies to effectively address the evolving challenges. Only through continued dialogue and collaboration can progress be made in creating lasting peace and security in the region.
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African News – France: Operation Barkhane, “not a failure”, says the Minister of the Armed Forces
