Benin President Romuald Wadagni strengthens ties with France

Benin's President Romuald Wadagni is pursuing a balanced diplomatic strategy following his inauguration, maintaining security and economic ties with France while engaging with neighbors in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

During his official visit to France, several strategic agreements were solidified. A key outcome is the establishment of a national DNA expertise capacity through the Research, Investigation, and Forensic Analysis Platform (PRIAM). This project, developed with the Bordeaux Forensic Hematology Laboratory, aims to perform up to 30,000 DNA analyses annually. Negotiations regarding financing are being conducted with Bpifrance, supported by Bpifrance Assurance Export.

The new laboratory is intended to strengthen Benin's judicial system by reducing reliance on foreign genetic analysis. The initiative includes training over 500 professionals and creating a dedicated university track. Additionally, France has announced 65.5 billion CFA francs in funding through the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) to support various sectors, alongside cultural cooperation involving the restitution of heritage items to Cotonou.