Türkiye expands presence in Chad with deployment at former French bases
French soldiers stand in line as they board a military plane following their departure from Abeche military base as part of an on ongoing withdrawal of French Forces in Abeche on January 11, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Türkiye and Chad have made significant progress in negotiations regarding the deployment of Turkish troops at the former French bases in Faya-Largeau, Abéché, and N’Djaména, according to regional sources.
Reports indicate that the Chadian government is set to transfer control of the Abéché military base in eastern Chad, which was abandoned by France, to Türkiye.
An official agreement between Türkiye and Chad, signed in mid-January, granted Türkiye access to the base.
Additionally, Türkiye has deployed drones near the Faya-Largeau base in northern Chad as part of efforts to contribute to regional stability.
This shift comes as France reduces its influence in the Central and West African regions. Türkiye is seizing the opportunity to fill the void left by France’s exit. In recent years, Türkiye has been working to expand its influence across the African continent amid increasing competition from Russia, the UAE and China.
As a result, Türkiye’s growing presence in Chad and the region is seen as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its geopolitical footprint in Africa.
