France Initiates Withdrawal of Military Forces from Chad Following Cooperation Termination

France has started withdrawing military forces from Chad, beginning with departing fighter jets, following the end of a security cooperation agreement. Chad’s Foreign Minister describes this as a “historic” change, yet emphasizes the importance of continuing constructive relations with France. Other countries in the region have also requested the departure of French military personnel, echoing sentiments around sovereignty and autonomy.

On December 10, 2023, the French Ministry of Armed Forces announced the commencement of a withdrawal of military forces from Chad, beginning with the departure of fighter jets stationed at the N’Djamena base. This decision follows the dissolution of a security and defense cooperation agreement between Chad and France. The French authorities indicated that discussions regarding the withdrawal of additional military resources are being coordinated with Chadian officials.

Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, remarked that the termination of the defense cooperation agreement was the result of a comprehensive assessment and signified a “historic” transformation in their bilateral relations. Notwithstanding this significant change, Chad is keen to uphold a positive partnership with France in various areas of mutual interest.

Prior to this withdrawal, approximately 1,000 French soldiers were deployed in Chad. Additionally, it has been reported that nations such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have similarly asked for the exit of French military personnel from their territories. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye publicly stated that the presence of French military bases in Senegal is incompatible with the sovereignty of his administration, urging for their closure.

The withdrawal of French military forces from Chad follows a significant geopolitical shift in West and Central Africa, where several nations desire to redefine their relationships with former colonial powers. France has been historically involved in military operations across the Sahel region, a strategy intended to counter terrorism and bolster the security of its former colonies. However, recent sentiments in these countries indicate a growing demand for autonomy and a reevaluation of foreign military presence on their soil. The evolving landscape has also seen other nations within the region express similar wishes for modifications to their defense agreements with France, signaling a potentially profound change in French-African relations.

In summary, France’s initiation of military withdrawal from Chad marks a critical juncture in the nation’s defense relations, following the termination of a long-standing cooperation accord. Both parties express a desire to continue collaboration in other beneficial domains despite this significant shift. As the political dynamics in the Sahel region evolve, it remains to be seen how this will affect future military agreements and sovereign relations between France and its former colonies.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz