France completes historic military withdrawal from Chad after 125 years

The French Army officially completed its withdrawal from Chad on January 31, marking the final departure from the Adji Kosseï base in N'Djamena.

This move follows the French military's exit from other bases in the country, including Faya on December 26, 2024, and Abéché on January 11, 2025, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The withdrawal represents the culmination of Chad's decision to sever its long-standing military cooperation with France. Abderaman Koulamallah, president of the Commission tasked with denouncing the defence agreement between the two nations, highlighted that this departure does not affect broader diplomatic ties. "France has understood that this decision is not a rupture but a transition, marking the start of a new era in our relations," Koulamallah remarked. "Chad is now ready to chart its own course with pride and dignity."

In a speech marking the historic event, President Mahamat Idriss Deby called the day "exceptional," noting that it signified the "effective end" of French military presence in Chad for the first time in 125 years. "This agreement has never been denounced or applied in such a manner on the ground as we are doing today," Deby stated, praising the cooperation between the two countries' armed forces over the years.

The president also emphasized the importance of fostering new alliances based on mutual respect, independence, and sovereignty. "We need to forge partnerships that reflect the aspirations of a newly revitalized Chad, one built on respect and national priorities," he asserted.

The decision to end military cooperation between the two countries was made public on November 28, 2024, during the 66th anniversary of the Republic of Chad. At that time, Koulamallah stated that it was "time for Chad to assert its full sovereignty" and pursue strategic partnerships more aligned with its national interests.

The French-Chadian military relationship dates back to 1976, when the two countries signed an agreement aimed at securing Chad amid regional instability. Over the decades, France has maintained a significant military presence in the country, including operations such as Manta (1983-1984) in response to Libyan aggression, Operation Épervier (1986-2014) to safeguard the Chadian regime, and Operation Barkhane (2014-present) targeting terrorism in the Sahel region.

Despite the military withdrawal, both nations have indicated their commitment to continuing cooperation in other areas, with Chad aiming to strengthen its independence while maintaining diplomatic ties with international partners.

By Vugar Khalilov