By Enyichukwu Enemanna
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 matters bordering on security, sovereignty and alleged foreign interference.
The West African country has faced security concerns from Islamist insurgency that has killed thousands of people and displaced millions of others over the past decade since it spread from neighbouring Mali.
“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.
Ouedraogo said the decision took effect on June 26 and followed a review of relations with Paris.
He accused France of supporting “subversive networks” and “terrorists”.
Paris had denied previous accusations that it was backing terrorism.
