During his two-day visit to Chad, French President, Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France will extend complete military support to Central Africa. The President was in the country to pay a pre-Christmas visit to the French troops
French President, Emmanuel Macron flew down to Chad for a two-day visit, scheduled for meeting the French military forces deployed in the country. This marked the leader’s first visit to the North-Central African country. During the visit, the President reinforced French support in fighting Islamic extremist forces in the region.
A 3,000-strong French force has been deployed in the Sahel region, involved in the ongoing anti-insurgent operation, Operation Barkhane that has been combating persistent extremist threats in the region. A base near the capital city of N’Djamena, Chad acts as the nerve centre for Operation Barkhane, a four-year campaign that is France’s biggest overseas military mission.
In his address, the President asserted that despite domestic budget tightening, France will not make cuts in the military aid provided to the African country. He stated that the “threat is constant and changing” and so, military expenditure cannot be avoided.
The President further added that France was ready to make multi-Euro investments to better the economic condition of Central Africa and to eradicate Islamic extremism, preventing it from “gaining ground” in the region.
French President was accompanied by his personal chef Guillaume Gomez, who prepared a special Christmas meal for the troops. President Macron, who joined the troops for the meal brought with him champagne, foie gras and chocolates.
The French President held talks with Chadian President, Idriss Deby and a delegation of Chadian women. He also spoke with the commanders of British, Estonian, German and Spanish units involved in the operation.
