Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby has announced the termination of its defense cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy. This move requires the withdrawal of 1,000 French troops stationed in Chad, a key player in France’s military presence in Africa.
“We have decided to end this military cooperation to redirect our partnership with France towards areas that will have a greater impact on the daily lives of our population,” Déby said. The decision reflects Chad’s desire to assert its sovereignty, 66 years after gaining independence from France.
Déby emphasized that this move doesn’t signify a rejection of international cooperation or a questioning of diplomatic relations with France. “Chad has matured, and we are a sovereign state that is very jealous of our sovereignty,” said Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah.
The country’s new direction is likely to redefine its strategic partnerships according to national priorities. Déby’s move has been seen as inspired by leaders like Ibrahim Traoré, who have championed African autonomy. A potential bilateral trade deal with Burkina Faso could enable Chad and Burkina Faso to trade directly without Western interference, further solidifying their economic independence.
Déby’s decision isolates France’s military influence in the Sahel region, following similar expulsions of French forces from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. “It is time for Chad to redefine its strategic partnerships according to national priorities,” Koulamallah said.