Chad announced it was ending its defense cooperation agreement with France, a decision fueled by the African country's desire to "assert its full sovereignty" after 66 years of independence.
"The government of the Republic of Chad informs national and international opinion of its decision to end the accord in the field of defense signed with the French republic," the country's Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah said in a statement published by his ministry on Facebook. The move will allow the country to "redefine its strategic partnerships according to national priorities," the statement reads.
Chad said it will "collaborate with the French authorities to ensure a harmonious transition." The statement also stressed that the decision to end the pact "in no way calls into question" Chad's relations with France, which currently has about 1,000 troops stationed in the African country.
