Chad: A Firm Diplomatic Response to Donald Trump's Listing, an Example for Haiti

N'DJAMENA.— The Chadian president has decided to cancel all visa applications from American nationals wishing to enter his country. A firm response to Donald Trump's decision to place Chad on a blacklist of twelve countries whose entry into the United States is restricted.

In this delicate situation, Mahamat Idriss Déby is attempting, through strong measures, to assert national dignity and sovereignty in the face of pressure from the White House.

“We have no billions to offer, no planes to cede, nor hidden investments; but we have our dignity,” Déby declared, questioning the State Department's relations with Middle Eastern leaders.

Chad's reaction illustrates the hidden tension behind the relationship between Western countries and often marginalized African nations.

Meanwhile, in Haiti, also a victim of this controversial listing, only former Foreign Minister Edmond Bocchit dared to speak up, proposing solutions.

Haitian leaders will likely react as always by spending exorbitant sums on lobbying efforts to ensure their sole access to Uncle Sam's land, at the expense of a country whose image continues to deteriorate internationally.

While Haitian authorities remain silent, their silence once again highlights the weakness of a diplomacy on its knees; the contrast with Chad's position proves to be an example of patriotism and dignity to follow.

Jean Mapou