French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday, March 13, 2026 announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between France and the Central African Republic.

Barrot made the announcement during a two-day trip to the country.

"This is the first time in eight years that a French foreign minister is present in Bangui and my presence marks the complete restoration of relations between our two countries after a period of strain and tension," Barrot told reporters.

He said France was looking forward to "reinforcing our relations in all sectors".

In 2024, Faustin-Archange Touadera, president of the Central African Republic, met with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in Paris as part of efforts to resume ties.