Two months following Chad’s termination of its defense agreement with France, the French military has officially transferred its final base in the nation, the Kossei base located in N’Djamena.
While Chad publicly declared the conclusion of the defense pact, the commander of the French Armed Forces’ Africa Command indicated that the decision to hand over the base was also influenced by France.
Pascal Ianni, the head of the French Armed Forces’ Africa Command, remarked, “The transfer of the (Adji) Kossei base today signifies a new phase. It reflects France’s decision to conclude the presence of permanent military bases in Central and West Africa.”
He further stated, “This structural adjustment is essential to align with the changing global landscape and the developments within Africa. We are reaffirming our partnerships in a vibrant Africa, where the youth embody significant potential. We must adopt a different approach.”
This handover follows the transfer of two additional military bases in Chad. The Chief of Staff of the Chadian Army has praised the cessation of defense relations with France.
Abakar Abdelkerim Daoud, Chief of Staff of the Chadian Army, expressed gratitude to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for facilitating this transition. He announced, “I inform you today that the operations of the French army are concluding, and the Chadian army is fully prepared to assume the responsibilities previously held by the French forces in Chad.”
Prior to the agreement’s termination, France maintained approximately 1,000 personnel in Chad. After engaging in combat against Islamic extremists alongside regional forces, French troops have also been expelled from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
