Site Web Officiel du Journal L'Action
L'International La Politique

Submission of France-Cameroon Memorial Committee Report : A New Chapter for France and Cameroon

President Paul Biya says the report paves the way for collective therapy. Claudette Chin

The President of the Republic was speaking during the ceremony at the Unity Palace on 28 January 2025, as he commended the research work done and called for the promotion of the findings. On January 21, 2025, the Committee presented its report to the French President in Paris, marking a significant step in improving relations between France and Cameroon. Cameroonian President Paul Biya welcomed this initiative at the Unity Palace, highlighting its importance for both nations.

Established in July 2022, the Memorial Committee aims to address the colonial past of Cameroon and foster better Franco-Cameroonian relations. Biya referred to his 1987 book, urging acknowledgment of the struggles for independence as essential for moving forward.

The President commended co-chairs Karine Ramondi and Blick Bassy, along with the other members, for their dedicated research. He described their work as a form of collective therapy that can help both countries accept their shared history.

Biya called for a fresh start, encouraging actions like establishing memorial sites and new educational programs. He proposed creating a follow-up committee to ensure the implementation of the commission’s recommendations.

President Paul Biya has does made a call to action for both nations to reassess their relationship, grounded in understanding and shared aspirations. By working together, France and Cameroon can transform their complex history into a brighter future, based on respect and cooperation.

The report is a significant milestone in the relations between Cameroon and France as it sheds light on France’s role in Cameroon’s independence and the opposition movements from 1945 to 1971. Referred to as an ice breaker in the relations between Cameroon and France by President Paul Biya the head of state made it known that the initiative was his and that of the French President Emmanuel Macron.  This period, marked by colonialism, independence and turmoil has left an indelible mark on Cameroon’s history and its relations with France.

The report’s presentation is a testament to the commitment of both countries to strengthening their ties and promoting a more fruitful and mutually beneficial relationship.

Articles liés