ECOWAS and France Discuss West Africa’s Security Challenges

ECOWAS Commission Chairperson General Birame Diop and Marc Fonbaustier, France’s ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, have held discussions on security challenges affecting peace and stability in West Africa.

The talks covered terrorism, organized crime, insecurity, cybercrime, cross-border crime, misinformation and disinformation. The officials also examined cooperation between ECOWAS and France, regional stability and broader questions concerning international relations.

France pledges continued support

Fonbaustier congratulated Diop on his appointment as the new Chairperson of the ECOWAS Commission and assured him of his support.

He also reiterated France’s commitment to providing further support for ECOWAS efforts to confront the region’s security challenges and promote peace, security and stability.

Diop expressed appreciation to his host and highlighted what he described as strong ties of friendship and cooperation between ECOWAS and France. He said he was determined to help improve and strengthen those relations.

“We will add our own values to these relationships that we have inherited from our predecessors,” Diop said.

Focus on dialogue and multilateralism

In remarks on global affairs, Diop emphasized dialogue, consensus, peace, humility, harmony, understanding and tolerance. He said the changing international environment required countries and institutions to adapt.

“The world is changing; we must change with it and follow its trend,” he said.

Diop also called for greater commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations. “We must move toward multilateralism, which is under attack today. We have a duty to further preserve the United Nations, which is the best means of unifying and bringing peace to the world,” he said.

He further urged respect, tolerance and patience, saying those qualities could help promote peace and harmony around the world.

Officials accompanying the delegations

Diop was accompanied by Anthony Ogunjimi, Vice President and political and diplomatic advisor; Isabelle Sandra Folquet, political and diplomatic advisor; and Jérôme Boa, Director of External Relations at the ECOWAS Commission.

Fonbaustier was accompanied by Alice Ellenbogen, his political advisor.

Diop also said he plans to write a book titled How to Rehumanize the Human Race, linking his comments to the need for greater understanding and respect in global affairs.