Burkina Faso breaks off diplomatic relations with France
Burkina Faso Ends Ties with Former Colonial Power
(Corrects signoff line with writing and editing credits)
Background of the Diplomatic Rupture
June 26 (Reuters) - Burkina Faso has broken off diplomatic relations with France, the government said on state television on Friday, widening a rupture with its former colonial ruler after years of worsening ties over security, sovereignty and alleged foreign interference.
Security Challenges and Insurgency
The West African country has been battling an Islamist insurgency that has killed thousands while displacing millions over the past decade since it spread from neighbouring Mali.
Official Government Statement
"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," Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo said.
Details of the Decision
Ouedraogo said the decision took effect on June 26 and followed a review of relations with Paris.
Accusations and Responses
He accused France of supporting "subversive networks" and "terrorists".
France's ministry of foreign affairs could not be immediately reached for comment though it had previously denied accusations that it backs terrorism.
Reporting Credits
(Writing by Ayen Deng Bior; Editing by Jessica Donati)
