Original Source
French Foreign Minister Visits CAR, Discusses Peace Initiatives
High-Level French Visit to Central African Republic
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot arrived in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), on Thursday. This marks the first high-level visit by a French official to the country in seven years. He visited the operational base of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MINUSCA), where he was greeted by its head, Valentine Rugwabiza. The visit, a two-day trip, aims to strengthen ties with the former French colony.
Rebuilding Ties Amid Russian Influence
Barrot's visit follows the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between French President Emmanuel Macron and CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra in April 2024. This renewed engagement comes after tensions had risen due to Moscow's expanding influence in the region. Since its independence in 1960, France had maintained significant influence, but President Touadéra's administration has increasingly relied on Russia's Wagner mercenaries. These mercenaries have reportedly secured lucrative gold, diamond, and logging contracts in return for their services, further complicating the geopolitical landscape of the Central African Republic.
*Source: YouTube: africanews (2026-03-13)*
