Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, visited Bangui on March 12 and 13, 2026, signaling France's attempt to re-engage with the Central African Republic. This move comes as Russia's influence has grown significantly since 2018, particularly with the presence of the Wagner Group, rebranded as Africa Corps.
The French initiative includes a loan of 25 million euros, equivalent to 16.4 billion FCFA, to support the Central African Republic's public finances and health sector. This financial gesture, while significant, comes after Russia, China, and Turkey have already invested in strategic sectors such as mining, security, and media.
The joint statement issued after the visit emphasizes "mutual respect, trust, transparency, and shared interests". These diplomatic terms highlight a desire for caution and restraint, reflecting a relationship that seeks to rebuild. Jean-Noël Barrot's agenda included the inauguration of the Expertise France office and the launch of the new building of the Pasteur Institute in Bangui, as well as a meeting with President Touadera.
The absence of announcements regarding security and the presence of Russian forces in the CAR reflects underlying tensions. Bangui took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to multilateralism, praising MINUSCA and the European missions EUTM RCA and EUAM RCA, without mentioning the Wagner Group or Africa Corps.
Behind the scenes, an invitation to the Africa Forward Summit, co-organized by France and Kenya in Nairobi in May 2026, was extended to President Touadera. This summit is part of a new French strategy to promote a multilateral partnership in Africa, where Paris would no longer be seen as a lesson-giver. Touadera's participation in this summit could signal a shift in relations between the CAR and France. His absence would send an equally clear message.
The legacy of Françafrique continues to weigh on Franco-Central African relations. The CAR, aware of its interests, is actively pursuing diplomacy on several fronts.
