By Merlyn Mwanza
Coming on the heels of the Russia-Africa summit which saw billions in debt owed by some African countries to Russia forgiven, with promises of free grain delivery and progressive agreements in security and technoligical spheres signed, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has embarked on trips to three African countries which were not represented at head of state level during the Russia summit.
The United Kingdom wants to intensify its engagement with African countries.
The UK’s Foreign Secretary, Cleverly, made the announcement, emphasizing that London is “ready to seriously consider any requests from African leaders regarding capacity building and training in the British armed forces.”
He said the UK military’s professionalism and respect for international law was a “good thing” that British forces could “export” to the continent. However, Britain and the United States against international law invaded Iraq in 2003 and also abused the no-fly zone to target Libyan leader Muarmar Gaddafi whose death they celebrated with glee.
Cleverly said that British troops can export the professionalism of the British military to the African continent, claiming that Russia and China have allegedly made “superficially attractive offers” to some African countries regarding security provision.
Cleverly’s statements seems peculiar, especially considering that the UK government has reduced its aid budget to African countries by almost 19%, to £1.1 billion.
Despite this, Cleverly is visiting Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia this week to take steps towards enhancing “mutually beneficial commercial relationships” with African nations.
