Paris mission officially closed 

On Monday, the twelve returning diplomats were received by Burkinabè Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré. During the reception, they formally relinquished the national flag that once flew over the embassy and handed over the keys to the diplomatic premises in Paris. The government in Ouagadougou has thus affirmed the end of its diplomatic presence in France, simultaneously refuting any rumors suggesting that some personnel had sought asylum.

An unequivocal diplomatic separation 

Burkina Faso initially announced its decision to sever diplomatic relations with France on June 26. In adherence to the principle of reciprocity, French diplomats departed Ouagadougou in early July, while their Burkinabè counterparts were given until July 6 to exit French territory. Burkinabè authorities have justified this significant move in West African politics, citing what they describe as France’s “incessant activism” against their national interests. Paris, in turn, characterized the decision as “hostile and without foundation.”

Deteriorating relations over recent years 

Since assuming power in September 2022, the administration led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré has progressively distanced itself from its former French partner. Following the withdrawal of French forces from the country, Ouagadougou has actively cultivated stronger alliances with new international partners, notably Russia, Turkey, and Iran, reshaping its foreign policy and regional dynamics.