Yaoundé hosts François Hollande

The French president embarks on a state visit to Cameroon at the invitation of the Cameroonian president, Paul Biya, today.

Yaoundé has been decorated with French and Cameroonian colors while awaiting François Hollande. Flags of both countries as well as banners, to celebrate the longtime friendship between France and Cameroon, have been placed along the route that will be used by the official entourage.

There is a packed agenda for the French leader on his mission in Cameroon. It includes discussions with Paul Biya, a press conference, a meeting with his fellow citizens in Yaoundé, among others. However, his main mission is on political and economic issues.

Politically, the two heads of state will have their 8th meeting after May 6, 2012, the day François Hollande was elected as France president. Another reason for the visit is to discuss the terrorist attacks both countries face.

After the summit held in Paris on May 17, 2014, in which the countries around the Lake Chad Basin and Benin affirmed their determination to coordinate against the Islamist sect, France has supported the countries in the fight against terrorism.

France was also subject to terrorist attacks that decimated a large segment of the weekly Charlie Hebdo in January.

On economic issues, Hollande’s visit will enable both countries give a boost to their cooperation. According to sources, four agreements will be signed during the discussions between the two parties. The agreement is said to be a total of about 76 billion F.

Part of the funds will be used to make provision for the C2D component with which France supports Cameroon. Also, there will be a focus on urban development, particularly, in Bafoussam, Bertoua and Garoua. Again, part of the money is intended for the construction of a second bridge over the Wouri River.

During his stay, President François Hollande will take the opportunity to interact with the Cameroonian government officials, including the National Assembly and civil society.

As a tradition in this kind of visit, the French head of state will take the opportunity to interact with his compatriots at the residence of the French Ambassador.