The French Ambassador to Chad, Éric Gérard, hosted a vibrant ceremony at the French Residence in N’Djamena on the evening of July 14, 2026, to commemorate French National Day. The event brought together diplomats, military officials, private and public sector leaders, civil society representatives, and French nationals residing in Chad.

The evening commenced with the national anthems of both nations, setting a tone of unity and respect. Ambassador Éric Gérard then delivered a keynote address, reflecting on the significance of Bastille Day for France and its people. He emphasized the core values of liberté, égalité, fraternité—the pillars of the French Republic—and highlighted the deep historical ties binding France and Chad.

Honoring a Legacy of Cooperation

The Ambassador paid tribute to veterans in attendance, acknowledging their contributions to the enduring partnership between the two nations. “This friendship is not merely historical; it is actively built every day,” he remarked. “It thrives on mutual respect, honesty, and unwavering sincerity.”

Gérard outlined the breadth of ongoing collaborations, citing 39 active projects spanning critical sectors such as water supply, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment. He noted that these efforts align with Chad’s Tchad Connexion 2030 development plan, a national roadmap aimed at transforming the country’s future.

Milestones in Partnership

The Ambassador highlighted two pivotal moments in recent bilateral relations: the meeting between the heads of state of France and Chad in Paris on January 29, 2026, and the Africa-France Summit in Nairobi, where leaders from 49 African nations, including Chad, convened to strengthen continental ties.

Closing his address, Éric Gérard expressed gratitude to all attendees, underscoring the ceremony as a testament to the strong bonds uniting France and Chad. The event concluded with a spirit of shared purpose and renewed commitment to collaboration.