Denmark has announced that it will close its embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso as part of its new strategy for African engagement.
The Foreign Ministry explained on Monday that the recent military coups in these countries have restricted “the scope for action in the Sahel region.”
Instead, Denmark plans to establish new missions in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, and to expand its diplomatic presence in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana.
Following the closures in Bamako and Ouagadougou, Denmark will appoint a special representative for the Great Lakes and Sahel region.
Relations between Mali and Burkina Faso with the West have soured since Mali’s coup in 2020 and Burkina Faso’s in 2022. Both countries have since sought support from Russia and its Wagner mercenary group.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen stated that Denmark’s reorganization aligns with the European Union’s goal of becoming the continent’s “preferred partner.” He emphasized that the EU needs to offer a compelling alternative to the growing influence of China and Russia in Africa.
Denmark’s revised strategy will emphasize increasing trade and development aid, particularly for water initiatives.