Thousands in Mali celebrate expulsion of French ambassador

Thousands of Malians took to the streets in a show of support for the Malian government's decision to expel the French ambassador, Joël Meyer. This event underscored the growing tensions between Mali and France, a former colonial power, as the Malian authorities accused France of meddling in the country's internal affairs. The expulsion was perceived by many as a bold assertion of Mali's sovereignty and a rejection of foreign influence, particularly in light of France's military presence in the region aimed at combating terrorism. Demonstrators celebrated the decision, viewing it as a step towards national independence and self-determination. The relationship between Mali and France has been strained since the military coup in 2020, which led to a shift in Mali's foreign policy and a pivot towards Russia for military support. This significant moment reflects the broader sentiment among Malians who are increasingly wary of foreign intervention and are advocating for a more autonomous approach to governance and security. The expulsion of the ambassador marks a pivotal point in Mali's ongoing struggle to redefine its international relationships and assert its national identity.