Chad moves to redefine strategic partnerships, ends defense deal with France
Chad's 1,200-strong contingent was deployed in the Sahel to fight rebel groups. (AFP Photo)
Chad announced Thursday that it has terminated its defense cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy. The decision, communicated through a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscores Chad’s determination to strengthen its sovereignty and redefine its strategic partnerships in line with national priorities.
“The Government of the Republic of Chad informs the national and international opinion of its decision to terminate the defense cooperation agreement signed with the French Republic,” the statement, signed by Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, read.
While the decision to end the agreement, which was revised in September 2019, may signal a move toward greater independence, the government emphasized that it did not reflect a decline in the long-standing relationship between the two nations. Chad affirmed its commitment to maintaining “constructive relations with France in other areas of common interest, for the benefit of both peoples.”
Chad also reassured the international community that it would abide by the terms of the agreement, including the notice period, and work with French authorities to ensure a smooth transition.
The announcement came during a visit by French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot, who arrived in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, on Wednesday. Barrot held talks with President Mahamat Idriss Deby on Thursday, focusing on issues such as the humanitarian crisis in the east of Chad, where Sudanese refugees have fled due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Their discussions also touched on the broader regional situation, including the Sudanese crisis, and the future of bilateral cooperation.
Chad’s move follows similar decisions made by other countries in the Sahel region, such as Mali and Niger, which have also severed military ties with France in recent years. In August 2023, following the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s military junta announced the termination of defense agreements with France, as it sought new defense partnerships, notably with Russia. Mali’s junta made a similar decision in 2022, ending its defense cooperation with France amid growing tensions over France’s military presence in the region.
Chad’s shift highlights the evolving dynamics in the Sahel, where former French colonies are increasingly reassessing their military alliances and seeking alternative partnerships. The termination of the agreement with France marks another chapter in the region’s complex geopolitical landscape.
