After a long wait, France has started withdrawing it’s military from Chad.
Mahamat Mahamoud Adam Béchir, Chad’s ambassador to Russia, announced this significant change.
“The first phase of withdrawal began on December 10, following Chad’s decision to end military cooperation with France”.
The withdrawal started on December 10, with two Mirage 2000-D fighter jets leaving N’Djamena, the capital.
According to Afrinews, the jets departed after midday from a French military base.
Chadian military personnel were present to bid farewell to the aircraft.
The jets headed back to a French air force base in Nancy, eastern France. French military spokesman Colonel Guillaume Vernet confirmed the flight and noted ongoing discussions with Chadian officials regarding the remaining French troops.
Recall that Chad officially ended its military agreement with France on November 29, 2024.
Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah described this decision as a historic moment for Chad.
He emphasized that the move would help Chad assert its independence from France, which it gained in 1960.
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Koulamallah explained that this decision allows Chad to build partnerships that better align with its national interests.
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While he did not provide a specific timeline for complete withdrawal, he assured that Chad would honor the terms of the agreement.
Public sentiment strongly supports the removal of French troops from Chad. On December 6, hundreds of people gathered in N’Djamena to demand the withdrawal of French forces.
Demonstrators marched to a military airbase where French soldiers were stationed. They also gathered outside the French embassy, which Chadian army troops guarded. Protesters chanted “Chad for us, France out!” expressing their desire for the French military to leave.
France has maintained a military presence of approximately 1,000 troops in Chad for years.
This withdrawal represents a significant shift in Chad’s strategy. The nation seeks to redefine its foreign alliances while asserting its sovereignty.
By ending military cooperation with France, Chad aims to establish a more independent stance in regional and international affairs.
This development signals Chad’s commitment to building a future free from foreign military influence.
As the withdrawal progresses, the implications for Chad’s security and diplomatic relationships will unfold.
