By John Ikani
Chad has announced the termination of its longstanding defense cooperation agreement with France, signaling a significant shift in regional dynamics and questioning Paris’s influence in the Sahel.
Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah announced the decision, citing Chad’s intention to “assert its full sovereignty.” The move came shortly after French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot held talks with President Mahamat Deby.
For years, Chad has been a cornerstone in Western strategies to combat Islamist militancy in the Sahel. However, recent developments, including a directive for U.S. troops to leave before May’s presidential election, suggest a pivot away from traditional Western partnerships.
Currently, France maintains around 1,000 troops in Chad, supporting local forces with intelligence and logistical resources. These troops operate from bases, including one in the capital, N’Djamena, under a defense pact updated in 2019 between the two nations.
Chad’s decision follows a broader trend in the region, where nations like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have cut similar ties with France. Many of these countries have sought new security arrangements, notably with Russia.
Despite this announcement, Koulamallah clarified to AFP that the move is not akin to the ruptures seen in Niger or other nations.
In further remarks, Koulamallah reiterated that France remains an “essential partner” but emphasized the need to “redefine strategic partnerships in line with national priorities.”
Chadian authorities assured that the change would not disrupt the country’s broader relationship with France, emphasizing cooperation in other domains.
