Chad announced the termination of a defence co-operation agreement with France, euronews reported.
The move, reflecting growing anti-French sentiment in the Sahel region, is aimed at restoring the African country’s sovereignty and reviewing its foreign policy.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah described the decision as a historic turning point 60 years after gaining independence. The statement emphasised Chad’s intention to focus on national priorities. However, the move will not undermine historic ties with France as both countries are committed to maintaining relations in areas of mutual interest.
Chad was one of the last countries in the Sahel to host some 1,000 French soldiers. France was previously forced to withdraw its soldiers from Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, as the three countries sought alternative partnerships, including with Russia, Turkey and the UAE.
The Chadian government also faced internal challenges, including protests over last year’s decision to extend the 18-month political transition for another two years.
Chad’s move to terminate its defence pact with France comes amid growing tensions over France’s historical and current influence in Africa. On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron recognised for the first time the Thiaroye massacre of West African soldiers by the French army in 1944 in Senegal.
France must recognise that on that day, the confrontation between soldiers and riflemen who demanded their full legitimate wages be paid, triggered a chain of events that resulted in a massacre.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye welcomed Macron’s statement, calling it an important step towards addressing the crisis.
We have long sought the truth about this painful event, and we believe France’s commitment this time will be full, frank, and collaborative.
