By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu
Chad has announced the termination of its military cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy. This decision was made public just hours after French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot visited Chad.
According to Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, Chad is ending the accord to assert its sovereignty and redefine its strategic partnerships. Koulamallah emphasized that this move is not a break with France, but rather a sign that Chad has “grown up, matured, and is a sovereign state that is very jealous of its sovereignty”.
Chad’s decision to end military cooperation with France comes after the country has sought closer ties with Russia. President Mahamat Idriss Deby has been leading Chad since 2021, and his administration has been reevaluating the country’s military alliances.
Historic turning point” for Chad, which has been a key link in France’s military presence in Africa
The termination of the defense agreement is seen as a “historic turning point” for Chad, which has been a key link in France’s military presence in Africa. France has around 1,000 troops stationed in Chad, and it remains to be seen how the withdrawal of these troops will be managed.
This development comes amid growing tensions between France and several African countries, including Senegal, whose president recently called for the closure of French military bases in the country.
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