External Support
France has been criticized for continuous paternalistic policy of Françafrique, a network of unofficial political and commercial engagements with political and business leaders in Africa for various economic gains. One of these leaders, Henrique N'zita Tiago resides in Paris while the other, Rodrigues Mingas has been reportedly using a French cell phone although he claimed he still lived in Cabinda. Although these special ties between French intelligence services and FLEC started during the Cold War to counter Cuban-backed Marxist regime in Angola, they continued on even after the war was over. France has also been involved in Angolagate arms deal scandal which involved illicit weapons sales to Angola during the 27-year civil war. President of France, Nicolas Sarkozy claimed he wanted Françafrique policy abolished. France has a big interest in Angola. French oil giant Total which made a new offshore oil discovery in October 2009, has been expanding its presence in Angola. The country is second largest contributor for production of Total after Nigeria. According to Angolan media, France and Portugal will allow extradition of leaders of the separatist movement in the wake of January 8 attacks on Togo's football team for which FLEC claimed the responsibility.
Read more about this topic: Front For The Liberation Of The Enclave Of Cabinda
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