The Ivory Coast is in dire need, overrun by rebels, along with other areas in the region. It seems they’re heading the way of the Sudan, etc. Not much of a shocker that Chirac would be sympathetic to the rebels.
I saw a show about the french in Africa. In the ivory coast I got the impression that the french were simply standing aside and letting things happen so neither side would turn on them. It’s a typically french position. They let whatever happens happen but are right there to deal with the winner whoever that may be.