France Ends Decades-Long Military Presence in Chad: A New Chapter in Franco-African Relations
In a significant shift marking the end of a longstanding defense agreement, France has officially handed over its military base in N'Djamena to the Chadian authorities. This move concludes decades of French military presence in Chad, a former colony, and reflects a broader reevaluation of France's military engagements across Africa.
Photo source: Newsweek
The handover process commenced earlier this month with the withdrawal of two Mirage 2000-D fighter jets from N'Djamena, signaling the beginning of France's military exit from the country. Subsequently, French troops vacated the Faya-Largeau base in northern Chad, transferring control to the Chadian National Army. A cargo jet carrying 80 tons of equipment departed N'Djamena for France, and a convoy of 54 vehicles headed towards the capital as part of the withdrawal logistics.
This development follows Chad's abrupt decision on November 28, 2024, to terminate its defense cooperation agreement with France. Chadian President Mahamat Déby stated that the agreement had become obsolete, prompting the need for its dissolution. The termination aligns with a growing trend among African nations reassessing and, in some cases, ending military collaborations with France, citing desires to assert sovereignty and reduce foreign military footprints on their soil.
France's military presence in Chad has been a cornerstone of its operations in the Sahel region, particularly in counterterrorism efforts against Islamist militants. The withdrawal from Chad signifies the conclusion of France's direct military interventions in the Sahel, following similar exits from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger after military coups and escalating anti-French sentiments in those countries.
The departure of French forces from Chad raises questions about the future of regional security, especially in combating extremist groups. While France has indicated a strategic shift towards providing defense training and targeted support rather than maintaining permanent bases, the onus now falls on Chadian forces to manage security challenges independently. The Chadian military has expressed readiness to assume full responsibility for national defense, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and self-reliance.
This transition also reflects a broader reevaluation of France's role in Africa, as several countries seek to redefine their post-colonial relationships. The end of the defense agreement between France and Chad marks a pivotal moment in Franco-African relations, signaling a move towards a new era of cooperation based on mutual respect and evolving geopolitical realities.
As France concludes its military withdrawal from Chad, the dynamics of regional security and international partnerships in Africa are poised for significant transformation, with implications that will unfold in the coming years.
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