Denmark is strategically closing embassies in Burkina Faso and Mali to redirect its focus towards countering Chinese and Russian influence in Africa. The military coups in these West African nations have hindered cooperation, prompting Denmark to enhance ties with Sahel nations.
With Mali and Burkina Faso under military rule since 2020 and 2022 respectively, the Danish Foreign Ministry aims to create a more robust diplomatic presence in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda as a counterbalance.
Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen emphasized the need for Europe to offer an appealing alternative to African countries amidst rising Chinese and Russian engagement on the continent. The Danish government plans to extend concrete support to the EU’s initiatives in Africa by 2025, focusing on regional free trade, green infrastructure, and digitalization.
Amidst concerns over Russia’s growing influence in the Sahel region, Denmark’s strategic realignment reflects broader European apprehensions regarding Moscow’s role in Africa, particularly in fueling anti-French sentiment.