France Transfers Abeché Military Base to Chad Ahead of Full Troop Withdrawal

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France has officially handed over its military detachment camp in Abeché to the Chadian government, marking a significant step in its troop withdrawal from the country. The ceremony, held in the northern city of Abeché, was attended by Chadian Defense Minister Issaka Maroua Djamous, his delegation, and senior French officials.

This move concludes years of French military presence in the region, which has been characterized by close collaboration with Chadian soldiers and engagement with the local population.

Colonel Boris Pomirol, Commander of French Forces in the Sahel, emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations despite the withdrawal. “These ties are a living testament to the friendship that unites our two peoples, and despite the departure of our troops, this friendship will endure.

Today, after so many years in Abeché, the situation is different. Chad has strengthened its capabilities and is able to face the security and humanitarian challenges in Ouaddai. The return of the camp to the Chadian military is a symbol of this,” he said.

Colonel Pomirol also reassured attendees that the departure of French forces does not signify an end to the partnership. “This withdrawal is not a farewell from France, but a ‘see you later’ from its soldiers,” he added.

The decision to transfer the Abeché base comes as Chad demonstrates increased security and operational capacity in the region. Abeché has historically been a focal point for security concerns in northern Chad, with its surrounding Ouaddai region often facing both security and humanitarian challenges.France Transfers Abeché Military Base to Chad Ahead of Full Troop Withdrawal

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Chadian Defense Minister Issaka Maroua Djamous reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the withdrawal of French forces adheres to the agreed timeline. “For me, this is an opportunity to reiterate the firm will of the government to respect the established deadlines, with the final departure of French forces from Chad set for January 31, 2025. January 31, 2025, is the non-negotiable date,” Djamous stated.

The presence of the French military base in Abeché has long been a source of tension in the city. Over the years, demonstrations calling for the base’s removal have erupted, though many were suppressed by the Chadian regime. The transfer of the base is expected to address longstanding grievances while reinforcing Chad’s autonomy in managing its northern regions.

Two days prior to the official handover, convoys of trucks carrying containers and heavy equipment were spotted leaving Abeché, heading toward the capital, N’Djamena. Much of the equipment will be shipped to France via Cameroon, signaling the logistical complexity of the withdrawal process.

This base transfer is part of a broader reconfiguration of French military involvement in Africa, reflecting a shift in its regional strategy while maintaining diplomatic and cooperative ties with Chad.

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