Chad has officially ended its defense cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift for the Central African nation. This move, announced on November 30, 2024, is viewed as Chad's effort to assert its sovereignty more than sixty years after gaining independence from colonial rule. The statement from Chad’s Foreign Ministry indicated the goal of redefining strategic partnerships according to national priorities, aiming to establish independence from past reliance on Western military support.
France has had approximately 1,000 soldiers stationed in Chad, making it one of the last bastions of its military presence following recent withdrawals from other West African nations such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Observers note this trend is part of a broader move among Sahelian countries away from traditional French military ties, with leaders increasingly seeking alliances with other nations, particularly Russia.
Chad's Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, emphasized the timing of this decision during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, which preceded the announcement. He stated, "France must now understand Chad is a sovereign state, jealous of its independence." Despite the termination of the agreement, Tchad is committed to maintaining friendly relations with France, particularly outside of military cooperation.
This development reflects underlying tensions and growing distrust toward France within the region. Chad's action followed similar moves by countries like Niger, where military agreements with France were similarly scrapped amid leadership changes. Analysts suggest President Mahamat Idriss Déby, who assumed power after his father's death, seeks to diversify Chad's foreign relations and mitigate anti-French sentiment among the populace.
France's diminishing influence is echoed by security dynamics and shifting allegiances across Africa. President Déby’s administration has expressed intent to forge new partnerships with nations like Russia and Turkey, aiming for long-term stability and cooperation against extremist threats, particularly Boko Haram and Islamic State-linked groups.
While the decision has raised eyebrows, the Chadian government has assured compliance with existing agreements to facilitate the French troop withdrawal. The operation of such military forces has historically been instrumental following attacks against Chadian military positions by extremist groups.
The question remains how France will effectively reposition its resources and military efforts throughout the region as it tries to adapt to the changing security climate. Early indications suggest attempts have been made to consolidate military presence mostly around French interests, following the retraction of forces from other nations.
For now, Chad's departure from its longstanding military arrangement with France is emblematic of larger currents redefining power relations on the continent, driven by both domestic pressure and international shifting climates.
Surveys among Chadian citizens indicate widespread support for this move, reflecting frustrations with France's past postcolonial presence and interventionism. The shift away from reliance on French military support may also signal Chad’s growing confidence to tackle national security challenges independently.