Four French nationals detained in Burkina Faso for a year have been released following successful mediation by Morocco, resolving a diplomatic dispute between the nations.
The individuals, previously identified as spies by the head of France’s foreign intelligence agency, the DGSE, were held in the capital, Ouagadougou, since December 2023. Both the DGSE and the French military, which oversees the agency, declined to comment on the matter.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed gratitude to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI for his role in securing the release. “This humanitarian act was made possible through the good relations between our countries,” Morocco’s Foreign Ministry stated, also praising Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traore for his cooperation.
The resolution marks a rare diplomatic breakthrough despite strained ties between France and Burkina Faso. The West African nation has expelled French troops and diplomats, ordered France’s ambassador and defence attaché to leave, and suspended French media outlets.
France’s once-close relationship with its former colonies in West and Central Africa has faced growing challenges, with nations like Burkina Faso increasingly distancing themselves. This mediation by Morocco highlights its growing influence in regional diplomacy.
