AiBotIn a development that highlights the increasing diplomatic tensions between Burkina Faso and France, Inoussa Traoré, the older brother and advisor of Burkina Faso’s junta leader Ibrahim Traoré, has petitioned French authorities to grant him a visa for medical treatment in the country. According to sources close to the matter, the visa application was made in response to reports that Burkina Faso has severed diplomatic ties with France.
The move is seen as a significant development, given the strained relations between the two countries in recent times. In September 2022, Burkina Faso ousted its long-serving leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, in a military coup, with Ibrahim Traoré taking the reins as the new leader. France, which has a significant military presence in the Sahel region and has been working closely with the previous regime, has faced criticism from the new leadership in Burkina Faso.
The decision by Inoussa Traoré to seek a visa for medical care in France comes as a direct response to the deterioration of diplomatic ties between the two countries. In a statement issued on Twitter, the Burkinabé presidency announced that the country was suspending diplomatic relations with the French Republic, accusing France of interference in the internal affairs of Burkina Faso.
Inoussa Traoré’s visa application is reportedly being processed, but sources close to the French authorities indicated that his application will be treated like any other, without undue favor or prejudice. However, the situation is being closely watched by diplomats and observers in France and Burkina Faso, who expect a significant development in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that France has a significant military presence in the Sahel region, including in Burkina Faso, with thousands of troops deployed to the region as part of the G5 Sahel mission. The mission, which includes troops from several Sahel countries, is aimed at combating terrorist groups, but has faced criticism for the military’s civilian casualties and human rights abuses.
Despite the strained relations between the two countries, France remains engaged in various development and humanitarian programs in Burkina Faso, including a large-scale program to support the country’s agricultural sector. However, the future of these programs remains uncertain in light of the current diplomatic tensions.
As the situation continues to unfold, diplomats and observers are closely watching the development of Inoussa Traoré’s visa application, which is seen as a test of the ability of the two countries to engage in constructive dialogue amidst their diplomatic tensions.