…says Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give, but has its dignity and pride
In a bold move underscoring national pride and diplomatic reciprocity, Chad has announced the immediate suspension of all visa issuance to United States citizens, iNews Times reports.
This decision comes as a direct response to the United States’ recent decision to include Chad in its expanded travel ban, impacting 12 nations.
The US travel ban, introduced by President Donald Trump, aims to impose stricter visa requirements and limitations on citizens from predominantly African and Middle Eastern countries, citing concerns over information-sharing protocols and vetting processes.
The ban has sparked widespread criticism, with many viewing it as discriminatory and a setback to US-Africa diplomatic relations.
Chad’s President, Mahamat Idriss Déby, announced the suspension of visa issuance to US citizens in a Facebook post, emphasizing the principle of reciprocity.
“I have instructed the government to act in accordance with the principles of reciprocity and suspend the issuance of visas to citizens of the United States of America,” Déby stated.
He further underscored country’s sovereignty, saying, “Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give, but Chad has its dignity and pride”
The suspension of visa issuance to US citizens reflects the country’s commitment to asserting its national dignity and responding firmly to what it perceives as unfair treatment.
This development may have significant implications for diplomatic relations between Chad and the US, as well as for individuals and organizations seeking to travel between the two countries.
The African Union AU has expressed deep concern over the potential humanitarian and diplomatic effects of the US travel ban, highlighting the need for more nuanced and inclusive policies.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how other nations included in the US ban will respond.
For now, Chad’s decision to suspend visa issuance to US citizens serves as a clear message of defiance and a commitment to upholding national sovereignty in the face of external pressure, iNews Times reports.