Burkina Faso has severed diplomatic relations with France, widening a years-long rift with its former colonial ruler over security, sovereignty and allegations of foreign interference.
The decision took effect on June 26, following a review of relations with Paris, Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo announced on state television.
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“The essential conditions for promoting relations based on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, respect for the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and national sovereignty are not in place,” Ouedraogo said.
He accused France of supporting “subversive networks” and “terrorists”, allegations Paris has repeatedly denied.
The move comes as Burkina Faso continues to battle an Islamist insurgency that has spread from neighbouring Mali, killing thousands of people and displacing millions across the region over the past decade.
France responded on Saturday by describing Burkina Faso’s decision as “hostile and unfounded” and said it was considering reciprocal measures.
“France regrets this hostile and unfounded decision, which illustrates the worrying drift of the Burkinabe authorities,” the French Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The ministry also urged French nationals living in Burkina Faso to “exercise heightened vigilance”.
Relations between the two countries have steadily deteriorated in recent years as Burkina Faso’s military government has increasingly distanced itself from France while accusing Paris of interfering in its internal affairs.
France has consistently rejected claims that it supports terrorism or destabilisation efforts in Burkina Faso.
