France has formally transferred its first military base in Chad to the Chadian military, marking a significant step in the withdrawal of French forces from the country.
This withdrawal comes after Chad abruptly ended military cooperation with its former colonial power last month.
The handover of the Faya-Largeau base in northern Chad was conducted according to the agreed-upon schedule and conditions.
The French military confirmed the departure of troops from the base, stating they were traveling to the capital, N’Djamena.
The withdrawal of French forces follows the departure of French warplanes last week.
The French army had approximately 1,000 personnel stationed in Chad, playing a crucial role in the country’s security and French military presence in Africa.
This move comes as Chad prepares for parliamentary and local elections on Sunday.
The French military’s departure coincides with a growing shift in regional alliances, with several countries in the Sahel region, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, turning towards Russia.
While Chad has also sought closer ties with Moscow, concrete results of these efforts remain to be seen.
The French military has had a long-standing presence in Chad, dating back to the country’s independence.