In an area as turbulent as it is strategic, Djibouti arouses the interest of many countries, sometimes with antagonistic interests. As the former colonial power, France boasts a small, but mighty force in the African nation, reports Frédéric Lert
France’s presence in Djibouti dates back to 1892 and French military aircraft have been based in the territory since 1932. The African nation became independent in 1977 with the benevolent support of Paris, which is today linked to Djibouti by defence agreements, entrusting it with the protection of the country.