King Philippe of Belgium completed a “landmark” visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday that was characterized by Brussels as an attempt to grapple with its colonial past in Congo. But the trip, like many involving visiting European dignitaries, follows a familiar pattern heavy on form and light on substance.

Back in February, Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum raised eyebrows by declaring that Niger would welcome French and European troops being withdrawn from Mali. But the move has drawn considerable opposition from those who argue that the presence of European troops could make Niger a bigger target of extremist violence.