As part of the 55th Paris Air and Space Show at Le Bourget, General Lassina Doumbia, Chief of Staff of the Ivorian Armed Forces, made a working visit to Paris where he met with his French counterpart, General Thierry Burkhard. This meeting is part of the ongoing historic and dynamic military partnership between Côte d’Ivoire and France.

The discussions between the two chiefs of staff mainly focused on the critical issues of regional security in West Africa and the capacity challenges faced by their respective armed forces. In a constantly evolving strategic context marked by transnational threats such as terrorism, illicit trafficking, and humanitarian crises, this bilateral cooperation is of paramount importance.

The main objective of this visit is to strengthen the joint response to the training needs of the armed forces and to adapt operational capacities to the new demands on the ground. Both generals emphasized the importance of a partnership based on the sharing of expertise, continuous training, and the development of technological and logistical capabilities.

This collaboration aims to improve the preparedness and responsiveness of the Ivorian and French armies to ensure stability and security in the region. It also relies on regular exchanges, joint exercises, and in-depth strategic dialogue.

General Lassina Doumbia’s visit to Paris demonstrates the two countries’ commitment to consolidating their military ties and jointly addressing current security challenges in a spirit of trust and mutual cooperation. It also reflects Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and playing an active role in regional peace and security.

In summary, this meeting at the Paris Air Show strengthens a vital strategic partnership in the service of peace, stability, and sustainable development in West Africa.