Chad ends defence pact with France, redefines strategic alliances

Chad has officially terminated its long-standing defence cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift in the African nation’s strategic priorities. 

The announcement came via the country’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, African Integration, and Chadians Abroad, Abdelrahman Koulamalla.

“The Government of the Republic of Chad informs the public of the decision to terminate the defence cooperation agreement with the French Republic,” Koulamalla stated in a formal declaration reported by French media, per Caliber.Az.

The move signals Chad’s intent to assert its full sovereignty after 64 years of independence from France, its former colonial ruler. Authorities emphasized that this decision would allow Chad to redefine its strategic partnerships on its own terms.

Around 1,000 French troops are currently stationed in Chad, a key ally in the global fight against Islamic extremism in the Sahel region. However, the termination of the agreement introduces uncertainty about the future of this military presence. As of now, France has not issued an official response to the announcement.

This decision aligns with a broader regional trend. Over the past two years, France has been compelled to withdraw troops from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso following military coups in these countries. Many of these nations have subsequently turned to other global powers, including China and Russia, for support.

Chad’s announcement came just hours after French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot visited the country, underscoring the surprise and diplomatic implications of the decision.

In a related development, Chad recently notified the United States of its intention to terminate its military agreement, demanding the withdrawal of US troops from the N'Djamena military base. This prompted the Pentagon to announce a partial withdrawal of its contingent on April 25, describing the move as a temporary measure.

Chad’s decision is another blow to France’s shrinking military footprint in Africa. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye recently criticized the continued presence of French troops in his country, telling French TV on November 28 that such a presence was “inappropriate.”

By Tamilla Hasanova