Burkina Faso cuts ties with France over 'imperialist ambitions'

The Burkinabe government announced on Friday that it had decided to sever diplomatic relations with France effective immediately, declaring that the conditions for ties based on mutual respect and sovereignty were no longer present, according to a statement issued in Ouagadougou. The decision follows a thorough assessment of bilateral relations that found persistent violations of the principles governing state-to-state cooperation.

Accusations of subversion

In its statement, the government accused France of persistent activism against Burkina Faso's interests and alleged support for networks it described as subversive. It also said Paris backs terrorist groups responsible for violence affecting the country and the wider Sahel region. "Faced with these imperialist ambitions aimed at dominating our country and subjugating our people, we have chosen responsibility and sovereignty," the statement said.

Protection of nationals

The authorities stressed that the decision concerns only the institutional framework of diplomatic relations and does not affect the historical, human, cultural and social ties between the Burkinabe and French peoples. The government said it would ensure the protection of French nationals living in Burkina Faso and safeguard their interests, calling on citizens to show "responsibility, restraint and civic-mindedness" toward expatriates in strict compliance with national laws.

Foreign policy shift

The rupture comes as Burkina Faso seeks to reshape its foreign policy, with officials saying they want to diversify partnerships and strengthen South-South cooperation to build more balanced relations with other states. The government said it remains open to dialogue with the international community based on mutual respect, reciprocity and the sovereign equality of states.