Chad Ends Defence Agreement with France
Chad has officially announced the termination of its defence cooperation agreement with France, signalling the withdrawal of French troops from the country. Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah explained that the decision reflects Chad’s commitment to asserting its sovereignty after 66 years of independence. “France remains a key partner, but Chad has matured as a sovereign nation,” Koulamallah stated, adding that the withdrawal would follow established timelines to ensure a smooth transition.
Strategic Realignment in Chad
This decision comes after a meeting between Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. Chad, a significant Western ally in the Sahel, has increasingly shifted its alliances toward Russia and other global partners. The withdrawal will mark the end of France’s remaining military presence in Chad, which includes around 1,000 troops, warplanes, and bases in the capital, N’Djamena. Chad’s move mirrors recent actions by other Sahel nations, such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which have also terminated defence pacts with France.
Senegal Follows Suit
In Senegal, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has called for the withdrawal of the 350 French soldiers stationed in the country. Speaking with Le Monde, Faye questioned the necessity of foreign troops in a sovereign nation and highlighted Senegal’s successful partnerships with nations like the United States and China, which do not require hosting military bases. The president also cited historical grievances, such as the Thiaroye massacre of 1944, as part of Senegal’s broader push for autonomy from former colonial powers.
Growing Resistance Against French Influence
The decisions by Chad and Senegal reflect a broader trend of African nations challenging France’s historical dominance in the region. Countries in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), including Mali and Niger, have expelled French forces following military coups and shifted their focus toward economic and security partnerships with Russia. These moves signify a realignment of priorities, with African nations prioritising sovereignty and self-reliance over historical alliances.
Economic Gains Post-France
Since severing defence ties with France, AES members have reported notable economic and security improvements. For example, Mali has concentrated on mining sector reforms, while Burkina Faso has redirected funds toward agriculture and infrastructure, boosting rural development. Similarly, Niger has invested in military training and mining projects, leveraging its uranium and gold reserves to strengthen its economy. These successes have inspired other African nations to assert greater independence in their foreign policy and economic strategies.
A Shift Toward Sovereignty
The withdrawal of French troops from Chad and Senegal highlights a turning point in Africa’s relationship with its former colonial powers. Both nations aim to redefine partnerships on their own terms while prioritising domestic development. As the region embraces a new era of sovereignty, the implications of these decisions are likely to reshape the geopolitical dynamics of the Sahel and beyond.
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