Macron and Chad's Mahamat Idriss Déby revive military and economic partnership

Emmanuel Macron welcomed Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Déby at the Élysée for a third encounter in less than a year, after a period of tension caused by the French army's withdrawal in late 2024. The agenda centered on revitalising economic ties, with French firms poised to increase investments in sectors such as transport, health, energy and education, following a recent business forum in Paris. In parallel, the presidents endorsed a new declaration of intent on defence cooperation, signed by their respective defence ministers.

The document outlines cooperation in training, expertise sharing, defence industry projects and technology transfer. According to the Élysée, the initiative is designed to enhance the capacity of Chad's military in cutting-edge areas. The meeting signals a broader rapprochement between France and Chad after months of diplomatic distance.