French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday received Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni at the Élysée Palace during Wadagni’s first official visit to France since assuming office in May.
The talks focused on bilateral relations between the two countries, with security, energy, training and cultural cooperation among the issues discussed.
Macron described the relationship between France and Benin as one between equals, built on “friendship, trust and ambition.”
The meeting comes as France seeks to strengthen its relations with African countries after scaling back its military presence across parts of the continent amid growing anti-French sentiment.
France continues to provide training for Beninese military personnel, including pilots and special forces involved in operations against armed groups in northern Benin.
Benin’s security cooperation with Paris has, however, drawn criticism from some of its neighbours, who have accused the country of hosting French troops.
The two countries are also engaged in discussions over the return of Beninese cultural heritage taken during the colonial period.
Benin has been seeking the restitution of national treasures removed during the 19th century. Some artefacts were returned in 2024, while other pieces remain in French collections, including at the Louvre and the Quai Branly museum in Paris.
The latest meeting between Macron and Wadagni is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to review their longstanding partnership and explore areas for further cooperation.
