Burkina Faso has officially cut diplomatic ties with France, accusing Paris of undermining its sovereignty and supporting activities that threaten the country’s security.
The decision was announced on Friday after the government said it had completed a review of bilateral relations and concluded that the conditions for maintaining diplomatic ties were no longer in place.
In a statement, Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo said Burkina Faso believes France has backed subversive networks and terrorist groups operating in the country and across the Sahel. The government also accused Paris of pursuing neo-colonial ambitions and attempting to tarnish Burkina Faso’s reputation internationally.
Despite the diplomatic split, the government stressed that the decision affects only official relations between the two states and does not alter the long-standing cultural and people-to-people ties between Burkinabè and French citizens.
Authorities also urged the public to treat French nationals and other expatriates living in Burkina Faso with respect and in accordance with the law.
Burkina Faso reaffirmed its commitment to an independent foreign policy, saying it remains open to building relations with all countries based on mutual respect, sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs.
