In a debate on Africa, two French presidential candidates face off.

During their sole broadcast discussion, French President Emmanuel Macron and his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen sparred over the country's waning influence in Africa.

Ms. Le Pen brought it up as a way of criticizing Mr. Macron for being too Euro-centric and uninterested in the rest of the world.

"France has evolved into a continental nation. We are a global power, and we must revive our global impact goals in collaboration with special partners, particularly French-speaking African countries that have been long-standing allies of France. "We have to mend our ties with them," she admonished.

Mr. Macron responded by emphasizing his efforts to mend fences with former colonies and address the colonial heritage.

"I've traveled to Africa more than any of my forefathers. This is a relationship that I respect. I re-established it, re-launched it, and I've been forthright and courageous about our past "he stated

"That is not the situation with you, in my opinion. They are astounded by what they hear you say, for example, you want to prohibit women from wearing headscarves on the streets "Mr. Macron said.

Unpopularity with the French in Africa has reached new heights.

Despite Mr. Macron's efforts to expand aid, commence the return of cultural artifacts plundered during colonial conflicts, and engage younger generations and civic society, this remains the case.