Chad Ends Defence Pact with France

Chad has announced the termination of its defence cooperation agreement with France, signalling a significant shift in its strategic partnerships and marking another blow to France’s waning influence in Africa’s Sahel region. The decision requires the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 French troops stationed in the Central African nation, continuing a trend seen across the region.

A Sovereign Stance

Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah stated that the move reflects Chad’s desire to assert its full sovereignty, 66 years after gaining independence from France. Speaking at a press briefing, Koulamallah said:

“It is time for Chad to redefine its strategic partnerships according to national priorities. While France remains an essential partner, Chad is a matured, sovereign state, committed to its independence.”

The announcement came hours after a meeting between Koulamallah and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot in the capital, N’Djamena. Chad’s government emphasised that the decision should not be seen as a break in diplomatic ties but rather as part of an effort to recalibrate its international relationships.

France’s Declining Military Role in Africa

Chad’s decision mirrors similar moves by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, where French forces have been expelled following military coups and shifts toward alliances with Russia. France’s historical military presence in the Sahel, once viewed as a stabilising force, has increasingly been met with resistance amid rising anti-French sentiment.

In recent years, Chad had been one of the last Sahelian nations hosting French troops as part of its efforts to combat Islamist insurgencies in the region. France has around 1,000 soldiers in Chad, providing intelligence and logistical support. However, Chad’s announcement further isolates French forces in the region.

Shifting Alliances

Under President Mahamat Idriss Déby, Chad has sought to diversify its international partnerships. While the country had long been a cornerstone of Western military strategy in Africa, it has moved closer to nations such as Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in recent years.

Chad’s decision follows its expulsion of a small U.S. special operations unit earlier this year, signalling a broader departure from reliance on traditional Western allies.

Regional Context

The Sahel region has seen growing instability, with military juntas rising to power in several countries and rejecting Western influence. Many of these nations have turned to Russia, leveraging paramilitary support from the Wagner Group.

In Senegal, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye also questioned the need for French troops in his country, though he stopped short of calling for their immediate withdrawal. Faye stated:

“Senegal is a sovereign country, and sovereignty does not accept the presence of foreign military bases on its soil.”

A Strategic Recalibration

Chad has clarified that the decision to end the defence pact does not signify a complete severance of relations with France. The Chadian government has pledged to honour the terms of the agreement and collaborate with French authorities for a smooth transition.

“This decision does not mean a break with France, like in Niger or elsewhere,” Koulamallah emphasised, adding that France remains an important partner in other areas.

France’s Response

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged Chad’s announcement but has yet to issue a detailed response. French officials have indicated ongoing discussions about the future configuration of their military presence in Africa.

The departure of French troops from Chad could represent the final unravelling of France’s extensive military presence in its former colonies across the Sahel.

Broader Implications

Chad’s decision reflects a growing wave of African nations asserting their sovereignty and reevaluating their ties with former colonial powers. The move also underscores the shifting geopolitical landscape in Africa, where countries are increasingly exploring partnerships beyond the West.

For Chad, the redefinition of its strategic priorities could signal new opportunities for alliances that align with its national interests while maintaining regional stability.