Chad Terminates Military Cooperation Agreement with France

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno has announced the termination of a longstanding military cooperation agreement with France. Speaking during a ceremony marking the 34th anniversary of his father’s rise to power, President Deby described the treaty as "outdated and irrelevant" in addressing Chad's evolving security and geopolitical challenges.

Photo source: Le Monde

The agreement, initially aimed at bolstering Chad’s military capacity, is now considered inadequate as the country confronts persistent threats such as terrorism and regional instability. "This deal does not bring us any real added value in the military field, where we face a variety of serious challenges on our own, including terrorist attacks," Deby stated. His remarks underscore Chad’s growing frustration with external partnerships that fail to meet its pressing security needs.

Photo source: APA news

The termination of this agreement signifies Chad’s intent to reassess its international relationships and assert greater independence in addressing security issues. As a key player in the Sahel region, Chad has historically been a critical ally of France in counter-terrorism efforts. However, shifting dynamics, including perceptions of diminishing French influence in Africa, have prompted many African nations to reconsider their ties with their former colonial power.

This decision aligns with a broader wave of anti-French sentiment sweeping across Francophone Africa, where governments and citizens alike are calling for greater autonomy in addressing their socio-political and economic challenges. For Chad, this recalibration also highlights the country’s aspiration to strengthen regional and internal capabilities in tackling security threats.

As Chad embarks on this path, it remains to be seen how this will reshape its defense strategy and alliances. For now, the move signals a clear message: Chad is ready to redefine its role and relationships on the global stage.