Burkina Faso broke off diplomatic ties with France on Friday. The decision came after officials completed what they called a full review of relations between the two countries.
Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo announced the split in a statement released to the public. He accused France of pursuing "imperialist" goals designed to control the nation and oppress its citizens.
According to Ouedraogo, the foundations for a healthy partnership no longer exist. Mutual respect, trust, and respect for national sovereignty are now absent, he argued.
Ouagadougou leveled serious charges against Paris in the statement. Officials say France actively supports terrorist networks and subversive groups destabilizing Burkina Faso and the broader Sahel region.
The government also condemned what it described as France's "neo-colonial ambitions." Ouedraogo noted that France spreads negative narratives about Burkina Faso internationally to isolate it.
However, Ouagadougou clarified an important point in its announcement. The decision affects only official state-to-state relations, not the cultural, human, and social bonds connecting the two peoples.
Ouedraogo called on all citizens to act responsibly toward French nationals and other foreigners in the country. He urged Burkinabès to maintain discipline and respect local laws.
Burkina Faso reaffirmed its commitment to charting its own foreign policy course. Officials said the nation intends to build balanced relationships with all countries equally.
The government signaled openness to future dialogue with any nation willing to engage fairly. It emphasized that such talks must be based on mutual respect and equal sovereignty.
