June 20, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Avenues for enhanced security cooperation between Chad and France examined

International

Défense : N’Djamena et Paris examinent de nouvelles pistes de coopération sécuritaire

Le Tchad et la France renforcent leur coopération militaire lors d’une rencontre au salon Eurosatory, axée sur la sécurité régionale et les capacités aériennes.

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Défense : N’Djamena et Paris examinent de nouvelles pistes de coopération sécuritaire

During the recent Eurosatory international defense and security exhibition, General Issakha Malloua Djamouss, Chad’s Minister of Armed Forces, Veterans, and War Victims, held a crucial meeting with his French counterpart, Minister of Armed Forces Catherine Vautrin. This significant engagement follows the ongoing political dialogue between Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The discussions primarily centered on bolstering bilateral relations and exploring future avenues for defense and security collaboration. Both nations unequivocally reaffirmed their commitment to upholding each other’s strategic interests and national sovereignty, a principle underscored by the Chadian Ministry of Armed Forces.

The ministers meticulously reviewed the practical implementation of a letter of intent recently signed between Chad and France. They articulated a shared ambition to cultivate a robust partnership anchored in mutual trust and sustained dialogue, essential for effectively addressing contemporary security challenges across the region.

Chad emphasized its dedication to a balanced and reciprocally beneficial cooperation framework, deeming it vital for fostering regional stability and enhancing the operational capabilities of the Chadian Armed Forces. Specifically, I understand that collaboration between the air forces of both nations is a key priority. Potential initiatives include advanced training programs, critical intelligence support, and French assistance aimed at strengthening Chad’s aerial capabilities.

Moreover, the French military has expressed a clear interest in re-establishing access to the N’Djaména air base. A French officer highlighted that such access would provide Paris with essential logistical flexibility for aircraft operations, allowing planes to land or take off as needed. A Chadian general concurred, noting that a French presence could be instrumental in countering evolving security threats facing the country.

Chadian authorities are actively pursuing closer ties with France, reportedly due to dissatisfaction with security proposals received from other international partners.