Chad Ends Defense Cooperation Agreement with France

FILED - 30 September 2024, Lebanon, Beirut: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot speaks during a press conference at the Pine Residence, the official residence of the French ambassador to Lebanon. Photo: Marwan Naamani/dpa

Chad's government said on Thursday it has ended its defense cooperation pact with France, a move that could see French troops leave the Central African country.
In a statement, Chad's foreign ministry said the country, a key Western ally in the fight against extremist militants in the region, wanted to fully assert its sovereignty after more than six decades of independence.
It said the decision to end the defense cooperation agreement revised in 2019 would enable it to redefine its strategic partnerships. Chad has cooperated closely with Western nations' military forces in the past, but it has moved closer to Russia in recent years.
France had pulled its troops out of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso following military coups.
"In accordance with the terms of the accord, Chad will respect the modalities of the termination including the necessary deadlines, and will collaborate with French authorities to ensure a harmonious transition," the statement said.
The French foreign ministry was not immediately available for comment.
The statement by Chad's foreign ministry said the decision to end the nation's defense partnership with France should in no way undermine the friendly relations between the two countries.