Chad Ends Defense Cooperation Agreement with France

Chad's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Thursday that the government has decided to terminate its defense cooperation agreement with France, a move that will require French troops to leave the country.

In a statement, Chad emphasized that this decision reflects the country's desire to assert its full sovereignty, 66 years after gaining independence.

As a key ally in the fight against extremists in the Sahel region, Chad has long cooperated with Western military forces, but recent developments indicate a shift in its strategic alliances, particularly towards Russia.

The statement outlined that the decision to end the 2019 revised defense agreement will allow Chad to reassess its international partnerships.

It clarified that the termination of the agreement is by the stipulated terms, including necessary timelines, and Chad will collaborate with French authorities to ensure a smooth transition.

Despite this significant shift, Chad confirmed that the move will not harm the overall relationship between the two countries. The statement stressed that Chad remains committed to maintaining diplomatic ties with France.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, who visited Chad on Thursday, met with local officials and toured the country’s border region with Sudan.

France currently maintains around 1,000 military personnel and several warplanes stationed in Chad, as part of its broader military presence in the Sahel region.