The government of Burkina Faso has announced the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, saying the decision follows a comprehensive review of ties between the two countries.
In a statement released on Friday, the Burkinabe government said relations based on mutual respect, trust, non-interference and national sovereignty no longer existed. It accused France of acting against Burkina Faso’s interests and alleged that Paris had supported subversive networks and terrorist groups responsible for instability in Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region.
Burkina Faso said the move reflects its commitment to defending its sovereignty against what it described as imperialist ambitions. However, authorities stressed that the decision applies only to official diplomatic relations and does not affect the longstanding historical, cultural and social ties between the Burkinabe and French peoples.
The government also pledged to protect French nationals and their property in Burkina Faso, urging citizens to treat all expatriates with restraint and in accordance with the law.
The diplomatic break comes as Burkina Faso continues to pursue a foreign policy aimed at reducing reliance on former colonial powers, expanding South-South cooperation and building what it describes as more balanced international partnerships. The government said it remains open to relations with all countries based on mutual respect, reciprocity and sovereign equality.