France commemorates 80-year anniversary of Allied landings in Provence

France commemorated the 80th anniversary of the 1944 Allied landings in Provence on Thursday, with six African leaders taking part in the official events to highlight the major role played by African troops. Speaking on the anniversary, President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to the contributions made by the soldiers recruited – often forcibly – in French overseas colonies.

France on Thursday commemorated the 1944 Allied landings in Provence, an event overshadowed by the Normandy landings two months earlier, but still key to the World War II endgame in Europe.

Six African leaders joined official events as President Emmanuel Macron singled out the contribution of soldiers recruited -- often forcibly -- in French overseas colonies, notably in Africa.

It took decades for France to highlight the crucial role of non-white soldiers in the fighting.

Cameroon President Paul Biya told Thursday's ceremony that their effort had been decisive.

Macron added in his speech that "when it comes to defending the nation's vital interests all those who identify as French are called upon to come together".

(AFP)

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