Ouagadougou confirms official break in diplomatic relations with France as of June 26, 2026.

The Government of Burkina Faso has officially informed both national and international communities of its decision to end diplomatic relations with the French Republic, effective June 26, 2026. This move follows an extensive review of the current state of bilateral ties between Burkina Faso and France. The government highlighted that the foundational conditions for fostering relations based on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, adherence to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and national sovereignty are no longer met.

The Burkina government news communiqué details a series of grievances against the current French authorities, explaining the rationale behind this significant diplomatic shift.

The statement points to “incessant activism” by the French administration against Burkina Faso’s interests, alongside “displayed neo-colonial ambitions.” These ambitions, it claims, include active support for “subversive networks and terrorists” who have caused immense suffering in Burkina Faso and across the Sahel region. Furthermore, the communiqué condemns what it describes as the “perfidy and partiality of discourse and opinions” about Burkina Faso, designed to portray it as an international outcast. In response to these “imperialist aims for the domination of our country and the subjugation of our people,” the government has chosen a path of responsibility and sovereignty. It emphasizes that this decision exclusively targets the institutional diplomatic framework between the two states and does not undermine the historical, human, cultural, and social bonds shared by the Burkinabè and French peoples.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT REGARDING THE CESSATION OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN BURKINA FASO AND THE FRENCH REPUBLIC

The Government of Burkina Faso wishes to inform national and international public opinion that it has made the decision to terminate its diplomatic relations with the French Republic, effective this day, June 26, 2026.

This decision stems from a comprehensive assessment of the existing bilateral relationship between Burkina Faso and France. It has become clear that the essential prerequisites for fostering relations built on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, the principle of non-interference in domestic affairs, and national sovereignty are no longer in place.

This situation is evidenced, among other factors, by the relentless engagement of the current French regime against the interests of Burkina Faso. It also highlights overt neo-colonial aspirations, manifested through active support for subversive networks and terrorist groups, which continue to inflict sorrow upon our nation and the Sahel. Moreover, the government notes the insidious and biased narratives and viewpoints expressed about our country, aiming to cast it as an international pariah.

Confronted by these imperialist designs to dominate our country and subjugate our people, we have chosen the path of responsibility and sovereignty. The Government underscores that this decision in no way diminishes the historical, human, cultural, and social ties uniting the Burkinabè and French populations. Its scope is strictly limited to the institutional framework of diplomatic relations between the two states.

The Government assures both national and international observers of its steadfast commitment to ensuring the protection of French nationals residing in Burkina Faso, reaffirming its hospitality and dedication to preserving their interests. It urges all citizens to demonstrate responsibility, restraint, and civility towards French nationals and all expatriates living on Burkinabè soil, in strict adherence to the laws of the Republic.

Burkina Faso reaffirms its resolve to pursue an independent foreign policy, founded on diversifying its partnerships, strengthening South-South cooperation, developing balanced relations with all states, and promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.

The Government of Burkina Faso remains open to dialogue with all states in the international community, based on mutual respect, reciprocity, sovereign equality, and the defense of each nation’s legitimate interests. It remains committed to building a free, more just, and more united world with all peace and justice-loving nations.

The Government Spokesperson,

Pingdwendé Gilbert OUEDRAOGO
Officer of the Order of the Etalon