On November 3, 2026, Djibouti successfully reclaimed 40% of the Héron Island naval base from France. The transfer ceremony took place at the General Staff Headquarters of the Djiboutian Armed Forces (FAD), where the French Ambassador, Jérôme Bresson, handed over the facilities to the Djiboutian Minister of Defense, Omar Abdi Said. This move is in line with the Defense Cooperation Treaty between France and Djibouti, signed on July 24, 2024.
The treaty aims to strengthen bilateral defense relations, with significant progress on strategic and operational fronts. A key aspect of this cooperation is the modernization of the Djiboutian Armed Forces. During the ceremony, a financing convention was signed to support a project enhancing the operational capabilities of the FAD. This project includes infrastructure development, crucial for the country's defense.
The event was attended by high-ranking officers of the FAD and French military personnel stationed in Djibouti (FFDj). Minister Omar Abdi Said expressed gratitude to the French Ambassador and his country for their commitment to the defense cooperation. He highlighted the significance of these developments in strengthening military ties between the two nations.
The defense cooperation between France and Djibouti has seen considerable advancements since the treaty's signing. A strategic dialogue was held on June 11, 2026, resulting in a biennial partnership plan covering 2026-2028. This plan focuses on enhancing military capabilities and cooperation in various defense areas.
The transfer of 40% of the Héron Island naval base is a direct outcome of technical studies conducted jointly by the FFDj and the Djiboutian army. These studies aimed to assess and implement the transfer smoothly. The base's partial return to Djibouti is seen as a significant step in the country's efforts to bolster its defense infrastructure.
The ceremony also underscored the commitment of both countries to their defense partnership. The involvement of senior military officials from both sides highlighted the importance of this cooperation. The modernization of the Djiboutian Armed Forces is expected to enhance the country's security and defense capabilities.
The return of the naval base and the financing convention for infrastructure development mark a new phase in Franco-Djiboutian defense cooperation. These developments are expected to have a positive impact on the region's security dynamics. Djibouti continues to play a crucial role in regional security, and this cooperation with France is seen as vital to these efforts.
Key points
- Djibouti reclaims 40% of Héron Island naval base from France.
- A financing convention was signed to modernize the Djiboutian Armed Forces' operational capabilities.
- The developments are part of the Defense Cooperation Treaty between France and Djibouti, signed on July 24, 2024.
