France has extended an invitation to Chadian President Mahamat Déby to visit Paris, aiming to revive and improve bilateral relations.
The invitation, delivered by France’s Ambassador to Chad, Éric Gérard, follows a sharp downturn in Franco-Chadian military ties after Chad ended its defence agreement with France in November 2024.
Chad’s decision led to the withdrawal of French forces from military bases, citing the need to assert sovereignty and control defence.
The meeting between Déby and Gérard focused on renewing cooperation, with Chad’s Presidency emphasizing “dialogue and openness” and considering mutual interests.
Chad has been strengthening ties with Russia and Belarus, while France’s influence in the region has been eroding after withdrawals from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
