Sahel: When the signs are green for Chad’s integration into the AES
Since coming to power, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s foreign policy has undergone significant changes. Traditionally aligned with Western partners, Chad now seems to be shifting its focus toward new alliances, particularly strengthening ties with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. This shift reflects a desire to bolster national sovereignty and distance the country from Western influence, which has been increasingly viewed as unbeneficial over the years.
Under President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s leadership, Chad has adopted a more critical stance regarding the French military presence on its territory. This position aligns with one of the key principles of AES membership: the absence of foreign military bases.
The AES advocates for an approach centered on sovereignty and strategic autonomy, values that are becoming more appealing to N’Djamena.
Although no official statement has yet been made, signs of rapprochement between Chad and the AES are growing. Diplomatic visits and negotiations between Chadian representatives and those of AES member states are moving in this direction.
Facing security and economic challenges similar to those of its Sahelian neighbors, Chad may find in this alliance a favorable framework to strengthen regional cooperation and enhance its stability.
Chad’s potential membership in the AES would significantly strengthen the alliance, adding a key geopolitical and military actor in the fight against terrorism.
With a well-trained military actively engaged in counterterrorism efforts, Chad could make a valuable contribution to regional security initiatives.
Moreover, this integration would enable Chad to benefit from the support of its AES partners in addressing its own challenges.
To be continued…
