Chad's foreign minister blames France for disrespecting African nations

Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah has criticized French leaders, particularly President Emmanuel Macron, for their remarks regarding African nations' lack of gratitude for their assistance in combating terrorism in the Sahel region.

Koulamallah described Macron's statements as reflecting a contemptuous attitude towards Africa and its people, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

"French leaders must learn to respect the African people and recognize the value of their sacrifices," the Chadian official remarked.

He emphasized that France had no role in the creation or development of Chad's military forces. In contrast, he pointed out that the people of Chad have long fought for full sovereignty and genuine independence.

This statement follows Chad's decision to terminate its defence cooperation agreement with France, announced by the Chadian Foreign Ministry on November 29. On December 5, Chadian Prime Minister Allamaye Halina officially appointed members of a commission to oversee the cessation of military cooperation with France.

On December 10, French fighter jets departed from Chad, marking the beginning of the withdrawal process of French military forces. By December 20, the first group of 120 French soldiers had flown from N'Djamena to France as part of the broader pullout.

French troops and fighter jets had been stationed in Chad since the country gained independence in 1960, primarily for the purpose of training and supporting the Chadian armed forces. At its peak, the French contingent in Chad consisted of approximately 1,000 personnel, stationed at three military bases across the country, with the majority based at Camp Kossei.

By Vafa Guliyeva